Arbill's - Safer Every Day ® Issue 4 Vol 1M

’s

issue 4, volume 1, spring ’17

FOCUS ON EYE & EAR PROTECTION pg 14

OSHA’s Recordkeeping Rule:

EH&S Sound Advice On Noise Exposure

pg 30

Workers’ Comp

The Expensive Truth about Eye & Ear Claims

pg 52

Friend or Foe?

pg 6

COMBAT EYE INJURIES KEYS TO PROTECTING SERVICE MEMBERS

PLUS

Product reviews, calendar of safety events, & much more!

PROVIDES THE INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KEEP YOUR EMPLOYEES SAFE

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CONTENT

Arbill’s Safer Every Day issue 4 , volume 1 spring 2017

A R B I L L’ S S A F E R E V E RY D AY M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 17

PUBLISHER

Julie Copeland

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Robyn Zlotkin

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF David Gerhardt

MANAGING EDITOR John Sitarski

ART DIRECTOR Julie Lazarus

ADVERTISING SALES Bill Gabriele

14 06 OSHA’s Recordkeeping Rule Friend or Foe?

Best practices and guidance to manage new changes 14 Focus on Eye and Ear Protection What you need to know to keep your employees safe 23 9 Workplace Safety Secrets You Need to Know

Insights to make your workplace safer 30 EH&S Sound Advice on Noise Exposure:

Focus on Eye & Ear Protection

46 OSHA By The Numbers Think you know OSHA? Put your knowledge to the test 48 Manufacturing Outlook 2017 NAM’s chief economist shares his outlook for the manufacturing industry in 2017 52 The Expensive Truth about Eye and Ear Claims A deeper look at the costs of scheduled injuries

Keys to develop a proper hearing conservation program

56 Combating Eye Injuries Keys to protecting service members

39 Arbill Around and About Spreading the word about workplace safety

58 Safety Calendar Every safety event, conference or tradeshow worth attending

40 Product Reviews New and innovative products to keep your workers safe

04 Letter from Arbill’s CEO

ADVERTISING DESIGN Amanda Rouda

Safer Every Day is published four times a year by Arbill Industries, Inc. At Arbill, we envision a future in which every worker makes it home safely, every day. Working together, we WILL reduce injuries in the workplace.

Arbill knows that maintaining a diverse and talented network of suppliers makes good business sense as they bring innovation, flexibility and enhanced opportunities for our business and theirs.

Moreover, as a women owned company, Arbill understands the challenges of, and staunchly supports, diverse companies. For more information on becoming a member of Arbill’s diverse supplier network, contact Robert J. Murphy, CPSM, at rmurphy@arbill.com.

GET IN TOUCH

We welcome your content suggestions, feedback and Letters To The Publisher. To submit your comments and suggestions, click here.

ADVERTISE

If you would like to reach more than 35,000 professionals who are interested in safety, safety products, safety training and safety programs, contact Bill Gabriele at 215-501-8208.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 3

Letter from Arbill’s CEO

WELCOME!

O

ON BEHALF OF ARBILL, I quiz, to see how well you think you want to welcome you to know safety topics. Also, be sure to our fourth issue of Safer check out our calendar of upcomEvery Day. Just as our ing safety-related events. mission promises, Safer While we have a vision as to what Every Day is back to prothis magazine should look like and vide practical information to help you contain, your needs, as the reader keep your employees safe. are most important. That said, your This issue will focus on the eyes suggestions for future content, LetJULIE COPEL AND and ears, and provide you with ters to the Editor, and constructive Twitter: @arbill tips and insights to protect your feedback are greatly appreciated. employees. In addition to informaTo share your thoughts, click here to tive full-length articles, this release access our suggestions page. includes product reviews, insight on workers’ comSafer Every Day is designed to be an essential pensation best practices, tips on how to manage component of your company’s safety program. I OSHA’s new recordkeeping rule and an inside look forward to your input and hope you utilize all look at nine workplace safety secrets every busi- of the benefits of this quarter’s issue. ness should know.

Have a safe day!

Nicole Sheets will offer her expert perspective on EH&S-related issues and we will provide you Regards, with content specifically for those in the military and government who are concerned about safety.

While you’re reading, try testing yourself Julie Copeland with our “OSHA by the Numbers” statistics CEO, Arbill

3 THINGS YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS ISSUE

1

Focus on Eye and Ear Protection Industry best practices to prevent employee eye and ear injuries

4 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

2

9 Workplace Safety Secrets You Need to Know Insights to improve your workplace safety program

3

Sound Advice on Noise Exposure Keys to protect your employees and prevent hearing loss in the workplace

OSHA’s INJURY & ILLNESS

RECORDKEEPING RULE

Following these best practices, may help you change your answer. // BY JANE K. LAGRECA, CSE

As a safety and risk management professional for over 25 years, OSHA’s 29 CFR-1904- “Recording & Reporting Occupational Injuries & Illnesses” has been by far the regulation which seems to cause employers the most sleep deprivation and with good reason.

When I first entered this profession, we all had to rely on OSHA’s Recordkeeping Handbook, which was a 185 page compendium of agency-approved recordkeeping materials, including the recordkeeping text from the prior 2001 Final Rule. I recall spending hours paging through this document; perplexed how one regulation could be so arduous. Over the years, there have been several updates and enhancements to the Rule, including the most recent revisions that have many employers asking many new questions.

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NEW

OSHARULE

FRIEND or FOE?

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 7

OSHA RECORDKEEPING RULE FRIEND OR FOE

A TIME OF CHANGE OSHA issued an update to the Final Rule which became effective on January 1, 2017, except for 1904.35 and 1904.36, which became effective on August 10, 2016. The final rule requires employers in certain industries to electronically submit to OSHA, injury and illness data that organizations were already required to maintain under pre-existing regulations.

The content and frequency of these establishment-specific submissions is dependent upon the size and industry of the employer. OSHA intends to post the data from these 8 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

15 MILLION

The Theamount amountOSHA OSHA estimates estimatesthat thatthe the final finalrule rulewill willcost, cost,per per year, year,including including$13.7 $13.7 million millionper peryear yeartotothe the private privatesector. sector.

submissions on a publicly accessible website. More information on the electronic reporting requirements may be found on osha.gov.

The “Injury Tracking” website is scheduled to go Live in February 2017 and OSHA will announce the availability of the website prominently on their home page when it becomes operational.

Perhaps this new reporting requirement will help to eliminate the question, “Why do we have to do all of this laborious recordkeeping if OSHA rarely/never collects it?” However, it definitely does not come without opposition and additional costs to employers.

OSHA estimates that this final rule will have economic costs of $15 million, per year, including $13.7 million per year to the private sector. OSHA reports that the annual benefits, while certainly unquantified, will exceed the annual costs assumed by employers. OSHA believes that timely access to this information will increase prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses and promote accurate reporting.

Opponents feel that implementing an electronic submission requirement might create motivation for employers to under-report injuries and illnesses because now this information will be easily accessible to their lawyers, competitors, customers, and even potential employees, all of which could pose negative financial impacts on their business.

The final rule also requires employers to establish a reasonable procedure for employees to report work-related injuries and illnesses, free from discrimination and retaliation. Essentially, the procedure must not deter or discourage an employee from promptly and accurately reporting an injury/ illness. In addition, the final rule amends OSHA’s existing recordkeeping regulation to clarify the rights of employees and their representatives to access the injury and illness records. These updates have employers revisiting their written reporting procedures, safety incentive programs and post-accident drug testing protocols, just to name a few.

OPPONENTS feel that implementing an electronic submission requirement might create motivation for employers to under-report injuries and illnesses because this information will be easily accessible.

WORKERS’ C O M P E N S ATI O N VS. OSHA RECORDKEEPING

Over the years, I have engaged in multiple conversations regarding the association between workers’ compensation and OSHA recordkeeping. This lack of understanding by employers often causes overrecording on the OSHA 300 Log. Recording a case on the OSHA 300 Log does not indicate either that the employer or the employee was at fault in the incident, or that an OSHA regulation has been violated. In addition, recording an injury or illness does not indicate that the case qualifies for workers’ compensation or other benefits. Recording a case on the OSHA 300 Log only demonstrates three things: (1) that an injury or illness has occurred (2) that the employer has determined through its investigation that the case is work-related (using OSHA’ s definition); and (3) that the case is non-minor by meeting one or more of OSHA’s recording criteria.

While many cases recorded on the OSHA log are also compensable under the State workers’ compensation statutes, many others are not. I often explain to clients that the two have different purposes and are not related. The OSHA recordkeeping requirement is intended to collect, compile and analyze nationwide data on occupational injuries and illnesses and compare statistics within like industries. In contrast, workers’ compensation is intended primarily to provide medical coverage and Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 9

OSHA RECORDKEEPING RULE FRIEND OR FOE

compensation for injured employees.

As a result, reporting a workers’ compensation claim to your Insurance carrier does not mean the case is recordable on the OSHA 300 Log, or vice versa. This is the first concept that employers must understand. The employer must independently analyze each case in light of both the OSHA recording criteria and the State Workers’ Compensation requirements.

or even annually. Recordable injuries or illnesses must be entered on the log within seven (7) calendar days of occurrence notification (1910.29 (b)(3)).

2

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS & OPPORTUNITIES Due to the complexities of the OSHA Recordkeeping requirement, I almost always find at least one error when reviewing an Organization’s OSHA 300/300A documents. Therefore, I highly recommend the use of an electronic form so that errors and changes can be made easily. Excel and PDF versions of the OSHA 300/30A/301 are all available to be downloaded for free on osha.gov. These forms also pre-fill the OSHA 300A, reducing the amount of work to be done at the conclusion of each calendar year. An OSHA 301 form is not required as long as your Organization utilizes an equivalent accident/injury report that provides the same level of information.

Below, in no particular order, is a list of these common oversights including corrective measures: Seven Calendar Days Yes, that is correct! The OSHA 300 Log is not a document that you complete monthly, quarterly

1

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INDEPENDENTLY ANALYZE The The employer employer must must independently independently analyze analyze each each case case inin light light ofof both both the the OSHA OSHA recording recording criteria criteria and and the the State State Workers’ Workers’ Compensation Compensation requirements. requirements.

Other Recordable Cases (OSHA 300-Column J) Most employers believe that any time an employee is evaluated by a Physician, this triggers the need to record the case. OSHA requires any workrelated injury or illness that results in medical treatment beyond first aid, to be recorded on the 300 Log. Therefore, it is crucial that all Employers clearly understand 1904.7(b)(5)(ii) to avoid recording cases that are considered by OSHA to be “First Aid”.

According to 1904.7 (b)(i), medical treatment is not considered: A. Visits to a physician or other licensed health care professional solely for observation or counseling.

B. The conduct of diagnostic procedures, such as x-rays and blood tests, including the administration of prescription medications used solely for diagnostic purposes.

C. “First aid” as defined in paragraph (b)(5)(ii).

3

Cases are Classified Twice When classifying a case, OSHA clearly states on the 300 Log to “check only one box for each case based on the most serious outcome for that case”. This happens most often when an employee has both “days away from work” (Column H) and “job transfer/restriction” (Column I). It seems logical that both would be

selected, however, this will artificially inflate your incident rate and essentially you will be counting each case, twice. Always select the “most serious outcome” which would be “days away from work” in this scenario.

4

Calculating & Recording Lost/Restricted Days Although a single case is only classified as one (see above), employers are required to enter both the number of “days away from work” (Column K) AND the number of “restricted/job transfer days” (Column L).

OSHA requires you to enter the total number of “calendar days” missed/restricted. For example: An employee only works Monday-Thursday and is injured on a Thursday. The Physician determines the employee must remain out of work until Monday. This scenario would result in recording 3 lost workdays.

Note: 1904.7 (b)(3)(vii) allows employers to “cap” the total days away/restricted at 180 calendar days.

5

OSHA 300A The OSHA 300A must be posted in a conspicuous location from February 1st through April 30th. The 300A must be posted, even if there were no recordable cases. In addition, the signature certifying the accuracy of the data on the 300A form is required

to be that of a Company Executive. A HR Manager, Safety Manager or Plant Manager does not likely meet OSHA’s definition of a Company Executive.

OSHA defines an executive as the company owner (if applicable), a corporate officer or highest ranking official working at the site (1904.32(b) (4)). Also, be careful to not underreport the ‘’total hours worked by all employees last year” or your incident rate will be inaccurately represented.

OSHA RECORDKEEPING RULE FRIEND OR FOE

Calculate hours worked by all employees including hourly & salaried positions to accurately represent the total exposure. Note: Don’t overlook including hours worked by temporary staff. 1904.31(b) (2) states you must record these injuries and illnesses if you supervise these employees on a day-to-day basis so it is important to take credit for hours worked.

6

Reporting Serious Injuries Within eight (8) hours after the death of any employee from a workrelated incident, or twenty-four (24) hours of the in-patient hospitalization of one or more employees as a result of a work-related incident, or any work related amputation (including bone loss) or loss of an eye, you must contact OSHA. Reporting options are as follows: A. OSHA toll-free number….1-800321-OSHA (1-800-321-6742) B. Call closest Area OSHA Office (only during business hours) C. Online form on osha.gov- (Serious Event Reporting Online Form)

7

Retention & Maintenance of Records You must maintain the required forms for five (5) years following the end of the calendar year that these records cover.

During this time, you must also continue to make any additions and corrections to the OSHA 300 Log that are necessary to accurately reflect any changes that have occurred with respect to previously recorded injuries and illnesses. Therefore, if the classification, description, or outcome of a previously recorded case changes, 12 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

7

DAYS

Recordable Recordable injuries injuries oror illnesses illnesses must must bebe entered entered onon the the log log within within seven seven (7) (7) calendar calendar days days ofof occurrence occurrencenotification notification

you must remove or line out the original entry and enter the new information. In addition, if you are notified late about a case that took place the previous calendar year and it is deemed recordable, it needs to be entered on the log that represents the year the incident occurred. Note: You are not required to make any updates or corrections to the 300A form during the five year retention period.

FRIEND OR FOE? In conclusion, recordkeeping is a time consuming and complicated OSHA regulation so it is important to be educated on the requirements.

While it is easy to correlate the 300 Log as a tool only utilized by OSHA during inspections or for financial gains, employers should focus on using this powerful information internally to implement or strengthen their health & safety programs. Analyzing this data is an opportunity to discover safety opportunities, track progress in developing solutions and improve the overall safety culture- making this tool a friend for everyone!

JANE K. LAGRECA, CSE, is the President of Safety & Risk Specialists, Inc., a Consulting firm based in Doylestown, PA which was established in 2003. Jane is a Certified Safety Executive and has over 20 years’ experience partnering with Organizations to introduce and implement behavioral and cultural processes to promote workplace safety and enhance risk management. This specialized approach enables organizations to achieve an accident free environment which produces long term financial and operational savings through a reduction in insurance premiums.

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FOCUS // THIS ARTICLE BROUGHT TO YOU BY OUR PARTNERS AT HONEYWELL

E

ye injuries in the workplace are very common, with about 20,000 eye injuries occurring each year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). About one third of these injuries are treated in hospital emergency departments and often require one or more days of lost work. Eye injuries not only cause pain and suffering, but the costs are more than eye opening, adding up to $300 million annually in worker compensation, medical expenses, and lost production time, according to OSHA.

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Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 15

FOCUS: EYES PROTECTION EYE HAZARDS AND INJURIES

E

ye injuries range from simple eyestrain to severe

trauma that can cause permanent damage, vision loss and blindness. Common causes of eye injuries include, flying objects, tools, particles, exposure to chemicals and other hazards. Due to the potential for vision loss, it is important to recognize the signs of an eye injury and get help right away. If a person has obvious pain or trouble seeing, has a cut or torn eyelid, the eye has unusual pupil size or shape, there is blood in the clear part of the eye, or there is something in the eye or under the eyelid that can’t easily be removed, seek medical help right away.

One of the most important things you can do to protect your employees and prevent eye injuries is provide appropriate protective eyewear and ensure your employees wear it. This tactic can help prevent more than 90 percent of serious eye injuries.

It is key for employees to wear protective eyewear whenever there is a chance for injury. This includes anyone working or passing through areas that pose potential eye hazards.

16 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Eyewear should be compliant with OSHA regulations, and selected based on the hazards that exist in your workplace. Goggles, face shields, safety glasses or full-face respirators must be used when an eye hazard exists and should fit each individual properly, while providing appropriate protection for the hazards present.

IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY AND COMFORT

W

hen selecting your eye protection it is essential

to provide protective eyewear that is compliant with ANSI/International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) Z87.1, UL and other applicable eye protection standards that cover protective spectacles, goggles and visors.

Eye protection should guard against hazards, while also providing comfort. This is a critical factor in employee acceptance and compliance. Look for comfort features such as flexible width sizes, an adjustable nose bridge and ratcheting temple hinges, which enable the wearer to customize the fit and lens angle.

SAFETY GLASSES

Safety glasses shield the eyes from impact hazards such as flying fragments, objects, large chips and particles. The frames are constructed of metal and/or plastic and can be fitted with either prescription or non-prescription lenses.

Specialty lenses such as AntiFog or Polarized, offer additional protection in specific environments. Anti-Fog lenses, like those used in Hydroshield glasses, provide added protection to prevent fogging, which is often caused by changing temperatures. Polarized lenses are excellent for outside work, reducing glare and eyestrain while improving contrast and visual clarity.

SAFETY GOGGLES

Safety goggles shield the eyes from impact hazards and fit the face immediately surrounding the eyes, forming a protective seal. This prevents objects from entering under or around the goggles. Safety goggles are available with removable lenses and may incorporate prescription lenses mounted behind protective lenses.

There are two types of safety goggle frames, eyecup and cover. Eyecup frames cover the eye sockets completely, while cover safety goggles may be worn over corrective spectacles without disturbing them. Each of these goggles offer ventilation options, which

allow air circulation while providing protection against airborne particles, dust, liquids or light. Direct and indirect ventilation prevents fogging and some protection from chemical splash entry, while non-ventilated goggles prevent splash entry but may fog and require cleaning.

FACE SHIELDS

Face shields protect the entire face or portions of it from impact hazards, and must be used in combination with safety glasses or goggles to ensure the eyes are protected.

Face shields consist of two parts, the windows and the headgear, which are available in various combinations.

Face shield windows extend from the brow to below the chin and across the

entire width of the face and are available in either removable or lift-front designs. Plastic windows protect against light impact, may include a glass insert and are available clear or filtered. Wire screen windows protect against moderate impact, may include a plastic/glass insert and are not recommended for use involving chemical or liquid hazards.

Headgear supports the window shield and secures the device to the head.

Adjustable headgear includes straps that allow users to manipulate the size of the headgear to ensure the proper fit, and allows face shields to be shared. Another option is to use hard hats with face shields. These may have a window shield mounted under the visor of the hat, and works with plastic, wire-screen, liftfront or removable shields.

REMEMBER: KEEP AN EYE ON SAFETY

It is important to educate your employees about the hazards and dangers of eye injuries, ensure employees are wearing their equipment properly and provide protective eyewear whenever there is a chance for injury. If an employee shows signs of injury, get help immediately, as there could be potential for vision loss. Focusing on providing the right training and giving your employees the proper equipment, will shield them from danger and ensure their safety.

When you are committed to protecting your employees, your employees are more likely to share your vision and protect their sight. With a variety of excellent, protective eyewear, Honeywell is the partner you’ll want with you every step of the way.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 17

LIFE CAN BE // THIS ARTICLE BROUGHT TO YOU BY OUR PARTNERS AT 3M

Noise is everywhere // Virtually everything we do makes noise, and the more we do it, and the more of us there are the more noise is made. In fact, silence, by which we mean complete absolute quiet, is so rare that few of us have had the joy, or perhaps even the possibility to experience it. If we have, it is so unusual that we can likely cite the time and place of its last occurrence. The opportunities to savor such tranquility are rapidly vanishing.

Not only is noise present in our daily routines and recreational activities, but upwards of 30 million Americans per year, according to OSHA, work in hazardous noise on a daily basis. Estimates from the National Institutes of Health suggest that, 36 million (17%)

18 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Americans have some degree of hearing loss, and 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have a hearing loss due to noise exposure.

Effects of Noise Exposure // Shortterm exposure to loud noises can

cause a temporary change in hearing or a ringing in the ears, often referred to as tinnitus. Noise does not have to be uncomfortably loud or even painful, to be damaging. If you hear a ringing or have to shout to a coworker an arm’s length away, your hearing may be temporarily dulled or hearing loss has already begun. Short-term hearing problems may go away in time; however, repeated exposures to loud noise can lead to permanent tinnitus and/or hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, hazardous noise can lead to reduced productivity, inability to concentrate, physical and psychological stress and increased chance of injury.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that worker exposure to noise should be below a level equivalent to 85 dBA for eight hours to minimize occupational noise induced hearing loss. To help control exposure to these hazards, you should put engineering and administrative controls in place. These include redesigning equipment to eliminate noise sources, constructing barriers, implementing scheduling changes and creating quiet break areas.

When employees are exposed to sound levels at or exceeding the action level (85 dBA TWA), hearing protection devices such as earplugs or earmuffs must be made available.

It is key to ensure that the devices fit properly, as the effectiveness is greatly reduced if worn incorrectly.

Hearing protection should be selected based on the environment of your facility, the fit and comfort level for each employee and offer the best level of protection.

How Much Protection // When selecting hearing protection products, don’t get hung up on the NRR, the government-mandated noise

protection factor that appears on all hearing protector packaging. The numbers are based on optimized laboratory tests that, in practice, represent what only a few of the most-motivated best-trained users can achieve.

Your best bet is to use the NRR only as an indicator that a product was designed and tested for noise reduction. Except for very loud noises such as gunfire where selection is, more critical, most hearing protectors provide sufficient protection when worn properly and consistently. Foam plugs or earmuffs, or a combination of the two, generally provide the highest levels of protection.

LOUD: EAR PROTECTION

FOAM EARPLUGS

Foam earplugs provide the best combination of comfort and protection for most users. Made from expandable, slowrecovery foam, they expand in the ear canal to provide a secure custom fit. One size fits most wearers, but they must be inserted properly for maximum protection.

REUSABLE EARPLUGS

Reusable earplugs are made from flexible materials, designed to fit the ear. They are a hygienic choice for workers in dusty, dirty environments because they do not require roll-down before use. When using reusable earplugs simply grasp the stem and push them into place, in your ear.

BANDED HEARING PROTECTORS

Banded Hearing Protectors are a convenient solution for workers who need to remove their protection.

They can help prevent plugs from being lost and keep reusable protection ready for use. Banded protectors must be worn with ear tips attached to the band, for effective protection. Do not wear ear tips or band alone.

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EARMUFFS AND COMMUNICATION HEADSETS

Earmuffs have rigid cups with soft plastic cushions that seal around the ears to block noise. They come with one-position or multi-position bands, and are available in styles for attachment to hard hats. For sustained exposures to very loud noises, or if you feel the need for more protection, wear earmuffs and earplugs together (dual protection) for an additional 5-10 dB of noise reduction.

Communication headsets help co-workers stay in touch through 2-way radios while protecting workers from hazardous sounds. Features include phone and radio

functionality, and noise canceling boom microphones.

They are ideal for groups that operate in high noise environments.

VALIDATING HEARING PROTECTION PERFORMANCE

The best way to know how well a hearing protection device is performing is to implement a validation program that quantifiably measures every employee’s personal attenuation rating (PAR). A comprehensive validation program can increase their level of protection by helping employees select the right protection for their job while training them on the proper way to wear their hearing protectors.

REMEMBER: YOU NEED YOUR HEARING!

It’s important to educate your employees about the dangers of hazardous noise, ensure employees are wearing their equipment properly and provide hearing protection when exposed to noise levels above 85 dBA. If an employee shows signs of some hearing loss, encourage them to wear protectors to prevent further damage and consider adjusting their schedule or adding more breaks.

Hearing is key to quality of life, and once hearing is completely gone, it is lost forever.

When you are committed to hearing loss prevention, your employees are more likely to share your dedication and protect their hearing. With world-class, proven detection, protection, communication and validation products, 3M Hearing Solutions is the partner you’ll want with you every step of the way.

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Safely Leading the World at Work

09 Workplace Safety Secrets You Need to Know // B Y J O H N S I T A R S K I

Protecting your employees can be a challenging proposition. The modern workplace can be a dangerous place that exposes your workers to many hazards. For this reason, it is critically important that managers and employees alike understand what they can do to ensure each employee goes home safely after every shift.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 23

WORKPLACE SAFETY SECRETS YOU NEED TO KNOW

SECRET

01

NO SUBSTITUTE FOR TRAINING We know that you would never just hand a new employee a safety manual and wish them the best of luck, but there are companies out there that do not invest in training.

Regardless of whether the employee is new or has been with you for 15 years, frequent safety training is a key component to helping everyone understand his or her role in maintaining a safe work environment. To ensure your training is effective, consider spreading out your training days so employees are not struggling to memorize information. Also, schedule regular refreshers and follow up with employees to make sure they understand the information and are implementing best practices.

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SECRET

02

ACCIDENTS DO NOT EXIST To call something an “accident” means that there is nothing to blame. While your individual employees may not be to blame for an incident, it could very well be a failure of procedure or an uninspected piece of equipment that is at fault. Creating an environment where everyone invests in safety is the best way to prevent workplace hazards and catastrophes from happening.

Be as prepared as possible by making tool and equipment checks a part of the daily routine and conduct regular inspections of the work area for overlooked dangers, no matter how small they may be. Investing in safety training as well as a predictive analytics system, like Vantage, can be a great way to help reduce injuries and the associated costs.

SECRET

03

DRIVE BEHAVIOR CHANGES As a leader within your company, you need to have a safety driven mindset and work to share that with your employees. By developing systems that reward and encourage behavioral changes, you have the opportunity to positively effect changes within the organization. These changes can lead to a safer work environment for everyone.Â

SECRET

04

LOCKING UP EQUIPMENT

Proper training on pieces of potentially dangerous equipment should always include the proper shutdown and lock up procedure. This critical step will help keep employees who are untrained and unfamiliar with the equipment from injuring themselves or others. Furthermore, properly locked-up equipment keeps seasoned operators from making costly mistakes.

SECRET

06

TRIPS AND FALLS One of the few constants in life is the unavoidable force of gravity. Trips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injury and can be reduced via proper signage and training.

Where there is a risk for a trip or fall, properly mark the area and during training and onboarding, point them out to employees.

SECRET

05

ELECTRICITY IS DANGEROUS

26 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Perhaps this is not the biggest secret on the list, but because of electricity’s constant role in our lives, it is easy to overlook the potential hazards it carries. Stop and think about how many times you have seen a surge suppressor that has been overloaded or even has another suppressor plugged into it. The potential for creating a short in the outlet, which sparks a fire, is tremendous.

WORKPLACE SAFETY SECRETS YOU NEED TO KNOW

SECRET

07

START FROM THE GROUND UP Footwear is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a safe work environment. From slip-proof to steel-toed and beyond, the selection of safety-oriented footwear is staggering.

Determine which attributes your employees need and make it mandatory. Not only will you be investing in safety, but your employees’ comfort as well.

SECRET

08

ALL GLASSES ARE NOT EQUAL Many people make the mistake of thinking that safety glasses/ goggles simply prevent physical objects and debris from contacting the eyes. However, certain professions require glasses that are able to prevent fumes, diseases and chemicals from contacting the delicate eye membrane as well. Spend the time to research your workplace’s specific needs in order to make the best choice.

WORKPLACE SAFETY SECRETS YOU NEED TO KNOW

SECRET

09

BEING HANDS-ON WORKS

This is not only a reference to ensure that everyone is wearing the necessary hand protection, but also that your company’s management is actively involved in creating a safer workplace.

Hold regular round table discussions with employees to learn their concerns and insights as to what is going well and what is not. The more you involve people in becoming a part of safety, the safer your workplace will become.

There should be no secrets when it comes to protecting your employees and guaranteeing that they make it home safely at the end of every day. These nine items are merely a guideline to help you start thinking about how you can improve your own safety practices.

If you would like to learn how Arbill can help your company create a safer work environment as well as reduce incidents, schedule a free consultation with one of our safety experts today.

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Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 29

SOU ADVICE ON NO

30 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

WE OFFER YOU KEYS TO BUILD A SUCCESSFUL HEARING LOSS PREVENTION PROGRAM

UND ISE EXPOSURE

HEARING LOSS, is often a silent topic, which people accept

as an inevitable result of working in industry and construction. If an employee lost an eye, or a finger, employees and employers alike would take much greater notice. Losing your hearing is a disability that affects innumerable aspects of one’s life. The number one cause of hearing loss is overexposure to noise, a preventable injury from which employers must protect their employees.

In today’s workforce, approximately 30 million people are exposed to hazardous noise. Thousands of workers every year suffer from preventable hearing loss due to high workplace noise levels. Since 2004, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that nearly 125,000 workers have suffered significant, permanent hearing loss.

Hearing loss is an OSHA recordable injury, and employers are required to take steps to ensure employees are protected from overexposure to noise.

Short term exposure to loud noises can cause a temporary change in hearing or a ringing in the ears (tinnitus). For example, you may have experienced this if you’ve gone to see a loud band play and afterwards your ears were ringing or your hearing felt dampened. Repeated exposures to loud noise, can lead to permanent tinnitus and/or hearing loss.

Loud noises in the workplace can also cause: n Reduced productivity n Inability to concentrate or communicate effectively n Physical and psychological stress n Increased chance of injury 32 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

OSHA requires employers to protect employees from overexposure to noise, and has set a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 90 dB and an Action Level of 85 dB. The limits are based on the average exposure over the course of a work shift.

OSHA requires employers to evaluate the workplace, with noise monitoring, in areas where employees can be anticipated to have loud exposures.

Based on the results of the monitoring study, a Hearing Conservation Program may need to be implemented (as per OSHA regulations).

Hearing Conservation Programs include requirements for the employer to provide hearing protection, annual audiometric testing, and annual training. If implemented successfully, employees will benefit from a better work environment, and the ability to enjoy conversations and everyday sounds that we take for granted. Company’s benefit in mul-

tiple ways including reducing medical expenses, worker compensation costs, and the potential for OSHA citations and liability from legal suits.

Below are eight steps you can take to create a successful hearing loss prevention program:

1.

CONDUCT A HEARING LOSS PREVENTION PROGRAM AUDIT

Before you make any changes to your existing program, you should first conduct an audit. This will help identify what is currently in place, what is working and what needs to be changed. It is often a good idea to bring in an expert to conduct the audit, as they provide

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 33

additional insights and can help identify if your program complies with OSHA and other regulations.

2.

MONITOR NOISE EXPOSURE

Noise levels must be monitored in areas where the employer identifies the potential for high exposures.

It is important to accurately identify employees exposed to noise at or above 85 decibels averaged over 8 or more working hours. One general rule of thumb is if you have to raise your voice to speak to employees approximately 3 feet away because of the background noise (e.g. from equipment, etc.), the area should be of concern. Keep in mind that even short high noise level exposures can quickly cause the average exposure to exceed 85 dB. For example, oper-

ating a table saw at 115 dB for 15 minutes (without hearing protection) is equivalent to 8 hours of exposure to 90 dB. Unless the employee works in a quiet environment the remainder of the day, he will in all likelihood be over the OSHA PEL (a violation and risk to the employee’s hearing).

ENGINEERING AND ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS 3. IMPLEMENT

Where possible you should use engineering and administrative controls to ensure that workers are not exposed to noise at or above 85 dBA as an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA). Engineering controls include redesigning equipment to eliminate noise sources, using noise dampening materials on equipment or in the general area, and constructing barri-

ers that prevent noise from reaching a worker. If it is not feasible to make these changes, administrative controls, such as rotating employees to quieter tasks as part of their schedule and placing time limits on work spent in loud areas or at loud tasks, are an alternative option.

PERFORM AUDIOMETRIC 4. EVALUATIONS

Audiometric evaluation is crucial to the success of the hearing loss prevention program, since it is the only way to determine whether occupational hearing loss is being prevented. Audiometric testing is performed by a licensed or certified audiologist or other physician, and monitors employee's hearing over time. Important elements of the program include baseline audiograms, annual audiograms, training and follow up procedures. Management must allocate sufficient time and resources to the audiometric program to allow accurate testing, otherwise, the resulting audiograms will be useless.

PROVIDE PROPER HEARING 5. PROTECTION

When employees are exposed to sound levels exceeding the action level (85 dBA TWA), hearing protection devices such as earplugs or earmuffs must be made available.

Despite engineering and administrative controls, hearing protection may be needed to control employee exposures to noise. When exposures exceed 85 dB but do not exceed 90 dB, hearing protection must be made available but is not mandatory by Fed-

eral OSHA (state plans may vary).

However some people may lose hearing over time in this range, therefore it is strongly recommended that employers require hearing protection at noise levels above 85 dB. At noise levels above 90 dB, employers must implement and enforce employee use of hearing protection.

The employer must provide multiple types of hearing protection, e.g. three types of ear plugs and ear muffs. The level of protection (noise reduction rating or NRR) that should be used is based on the noise monitoring results. If hearing protection blocks out too much sound, employees cannot hear alarms (e.g. forklift, fire, etc.) and can have trouble with understanding conversation. It is key to ensure that the devices fit properly, as the effectiveness is greatly reduced if worn incorrectly. Hearing protection should be selected based on the environment of your facility, the fit and comfort level for each employee and offer the best level of protection.

Note: If an employee already has a documented hearing loss, they must use hearing protection at exposures over 85 dB.

AND MOTIVATE 6. EDUCATE EMPLOYEES

It is important to clearly mark, with visible warning signs, any areas where noise exposure equals or exceeds 85 dBA. This will help employees identify when hearing protection is needed and shows that your company is taking the proper steps to protect them. Additionally, training must be conducted Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 35

measurements of the background sounds pressure levels in audiometric test rooms, and employee's most recent noise exposure measurement. on an annual basis. This consists of educating employees on the effects of noise on hearing, the selection, fit and care of hearing protectors and the purpose of audiometric testing.

7. KEEP PROPER RECORDS

Hearing loss prevention program records should include documentation of all items for each element of the program (noise monitoring data, training, and audiometric testing). Noise exposure measurement records must be maintained and made available for OSHA review and audiometric test records should be maintained for at least the duration of an affected employee’s employment. According to OSHA, audiometric test records must include the employee's name, job classification, date, examiner's name, date of the last calibration,

8.

EVALUATE THE PROGRAM

Like other safety programs, hearing loss prevention programs require periodic evaluation to assure their effectiveness. Review with your management team and employees to see what is working and what is not, and make changes where needed. If employees are still suffering hearing loss as determined by audiology testing, then re-evaluation of exposures and protection levels is warranted to make determine if the causes of the hearing loss may be related to workplace exposures.

Implementing a proper hearing conservation program is an important step to help prevent hearing loss in your workplace. Arbill's EHS experts can help establish your program, recommend the proper equipment and provide your employees with training to ensure compliance.

NICOLE SHEETS is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and Certified Safety Professional with twenty years of experience as a consultant in the fields of industrial hygiene and OSHA compliance and safety. Her experience has been largely divided between performing industrial hygiene air and noise studies, consulting on safety and compliance issues, and providing training on a broad range of OSHA topics, as well as DOT and RCRA. Ms. Sheets serves a diverse client base including manufacturing, construction, insurance and laboratory industries.

36 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 37

Arbill Arbill Arbill isisimproving isimproving improving workplace workplace workplace safety safety safety throughout throughout thethe United United States States withwith its its patent patent pending pending pending SafetyCare SafetyCare SafetyCare solution. solution. solution.

After After After aa comprehensive comprehensive a comprehensive safety safety assessment assessment of your of your facilities facilities – that that – that examines examines examines more more more than than than 400 400 400 potential potential potential safety-related safety-related safety-related issues issues – Arbill – Arbill designs designs twotwo prescription prescription prescription options options options for forfor workplace workplace workplace safety safety safety at at your at your your facilities. facilities.

YouYou chose chose thethe prescription prescription plan plan that thatthat best best best suits suits suits your your your company company company toto improve toimprove improve safety, safety, safety, reduce reduce reduce injuries, injuries, andand assure assure OSHA OSHA compliance. compliance.

OPTION OPTION OPTION 1:1: SafetyCare 1: SafetyCare SafetyCare prescription prescription prescription offering offering forfor OSHA OSHA compliance. compliance.

OPTION OPTION OPTION 2:2: SafetyCare 2: SafetyCare SafetyCare prescription prescription prescription offering offering forfor Arbill’s Arbill’s award award winning winning brand brand promise promise promise of of of aa guaranteed guaranteed a guaranteed 10% 10% 10% reduction reduction in incidents. in incidents.

SafetyCare SafetyCare Contact Contact Contact Arbill Arbill Arbill today today today toto schedule to schedule schedule an anan assessment assessment assessment of your of your safety safety needs. needs.

From From complex complex complex EH&S EH&S EH&S issues issues issues totosafety tosafety safety and and and sustainability sustainability sustainability programs programs programs andand policy policy development, development, thethe Arbill Arbill EH&S EH&S EH&S Solutions Solutions Solutions team team team isisyour isyour your go-to go-to go-to resource resource resource for forfor EH&S EH&S EH&S problem problem solving, solving, OSHA OSHA compliance compliance andand injury injury injury reduction. reduction. reduction.

For For For more more more informa informa informa on onon contact contact contact EH&S EH&S EH&S Advisor Advisor Advisor Lisa Lisa Miller Miller at lmiller@arbill.com at lmiller@arbill.com or call or call 215-290-8802.

215-290-8802.

215-290-8802.

AROUND & ABOUT DMSCA CONFERENCE IN NEW ORLEANS

At the end of February, Arbill’s Director of Communications and Business Development, David Gerhardt, attended the Diverse Manufacturing Supply Chain Alliance’s (DMSCA) National Education & Training Conference. The event was at the New Orleans Downtown Marriott, and attendees included CPE and Supply Chain Executives, Supplier Diversity Managers and Directors, Sourcing and Buying Directors, Workforce Training Directors and CEOs. The conference focused on the digitization of the Supply Chain and how Suppliers must compete and collaborate with Customers to foster innovation.

ARBILL’S SAFETY ADVISOR JUSTIN JENKINS

WBENC WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

In January, Arbill’s CEO, Julie Copeland was honored along with 25 other women leaders, as one of the inaugural WBENC Women of Distinction. This program was established to create a strategic role for highly successful and dedicated Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) as advisors to WBENC, supporting the growth and success of all WBEs. Julie will be honored during the 20th anniversary celebration at WBENC’s annual Summit & Salute event, taking place March 21-23, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Arbill’s Safety Advisor, Justin Jenkins, is featured here with Arbill’s on-site vending machines, which allow customers to track and automatically replenish safety supplies. Justin works with clients to establish a program, determine how many machines each facility needs and how frequently they need to be re-stocked. Having the machines on site means employees have access to the supplies, they need reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

ARBILL’S SAFETY STUDIO

The Arbill team is continuously working to provide industry insights and knowledge for our clients. With this in mind, we have created a new safety studio, to bring you video safety tips and insights. We will feature toolbox talks, safety tips and product demonstrations each week to keep you up to date on industry trends and best practices. Stay tuned for our first feature in the coming weeks.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 39

PRODUCT REVIEWS

In each issue of Safer Every Day we will feature safety-related products that provide a high level of protection, safety and the peace of mind that safety professionals are looking for when sourcing products to keep their coworkers accidentfree. If you have questions about any of the products shown, or if you would like to make a purchase, contact Arbill at 800-523-5367.

Corded Earplugs ITEM ID: A404940 BRAND: 3M PRODUCT NAME: E-A-R CLASSIC SOFT CORDED EARPLUGS

The 3M E-A-R Classic Soft Earplugs are made of a proprietary thermal-reactive foam that starts out firm for easy fitting in the ears, but then softens from body heat for a comfortable fit that customizes to the unique shape of each ear.

40 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Digital Sound Meter PRODUCT REVIEWS

ITEM ID: A400050 BRAND: FISHER SCIENTIFIC PRODUCT NAME: TYPE 2 DIGITAL SOUND METER An ideal testing tool for OSHA requirements. Features lightweight, compact construction for portability and one-handed operation, phone output terminal and built-in calibration. A large LCD display provides low power consumption and clear readout.

AC or DC output allows for system expansion. Includes carrying case and battery. Complies with IEC, ANSI, JIS and DIN.

Reusable Corded Earplugs

Over-the-Head Earmuffs

Push-in Earplugs

ITEM ID: A402210 BRAND: TRULINE PRODUCT NAME: SEALKONE

ITEM ID: A401130 BRAND: 3M PRODUCT NAME: 3M PELTOR OPTIME 98

ITEM ID: TRUSTFITPOD-1 BRAND: HONEYWELL PRODUCT NAME: TRUSTFIT POD

These reusable (NRR 27) TPR earplugs feature 3 very soft flanges that adjust to the ear canal for an extremely comfortable fit and high level of noise protection.

Features a built in stem for easy insertion and removal. Lasts weeks using soap and water to clean and blue color makes safety checks easier. Features optional black nylon.

Versatile, over-the-head earmuffs featuring a stainless steel headband for consistent force and effective hearing protection for noise levels up to 98 dBA. Resists bending and warping, and earcup pivot points titl for optimum comfort and efficiency. Ultra light with liquid/foam filled earmuff cushions and color-coding for compliance sighting.

Designed with an ergonomic stem and dimpled foam, the Howard Leight TrustFit Pod push-in earplugs, are easy to fully insert and remove. The signature soft foam removes the need to roll-down helping to reduce hygiene concerns and ensuring the proper comfort and fit.

If you would like to have a product considered for inclusion in the Product Review section, please click here, provide your contact information and describe the product you would like to include.

42 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Anti-Fog Lens Glasses ITEM ID: DM122 BRAND: MCR PRODUCT NAME: MCR SAFETY DOMINATOR MCR Safety Dominator series includes wire core independently adjustable nose pads to fit most facial profiles. The Dominator 2 are available with MAX3 scratch resistant coating providing three times greater resistance, MAX6 ant-fog coating which is proven to provide six times greater fog-resistance, or BossMan mirror lens coating.

Clear Anti Fog Lens Glasses ITEM ID: A303234 BRAND: TRULINE PRODUCT NAME: JAVA SPORT GLASSES

Anti-Fog Goggles ITEM ID: A303630 BRAND: UVEX BY HONEYWELL PRODUCT NAME: STEALTH Futuristic design with excellent chemical splash and impact protection. Features toric lens to provide superior optics and peripheral vision and Uvextreme anti-fog coating. Offers indirect ventilation system and quick adjust headband, with easy lens replacement system. Complies with ANSI and CSA.

The Java Sport glasses offer dual injected temples for enhanced comfort and have a sporty black or gray slate design. Anti fog lenses provide maximum performance with improved visual clarity. ANSI Z87+; CSA Z94.3; MIL-PRF-32432 Ballistic Fragmentation - Class 1

PRODUCT REVIEWS

HydroShield Clear Lens ITEM ID: S4200HS BRAND: UVEX BY HONEYWELL PRODUCT NAME: PROTÉGÉ HydroShield wrap-around lens provides exceptional peripheral vision and protection. Flexible fingers adjust to most nasal profiles and elastomer browguard deflects impact. Hydroshield is permanently bonded to both sides of the lens keeping lens clear by absorbing and repelling moisture.

Clear Scotchgard Anti-Fog Glasses

Polarized Lens Glasses

ITEM ID: S1201SGAF BRAND: 3M PRODUCT NAME: 3M SOLUS 1000 SERIES ANTI-FOG LENS

ITEM ID: A30326 BRAND: TRULINE PRODUCT NAME: JAVA SPORT GLASSES

Scotchgard Anti-Fog coating lasts longer than traditional anti-fog coatings. Made with dual injected padded temples and soft nosebridge for added comfort.

44 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

The Java Sport glasses offer dual injected temples for enhanced comfort and have a sporty black or gray slate design. The poloarized lenses are excellent for outside work and reduce glare and eyestrain, while improving contrast and visual clarity. ANSI Z87+; CSA Z94.3; MIL-PRF-32432 Ballistic Fragmentation - Class 1

less muscle effort GREATER PRODUCTIVITY Our design reduces muscle effort that can cause stress on joints, ligaments and tendons

MICROFLEX® XCEED® WITH ERGOFORM™ ERGONOMIC DESIGN TECHNOLOGY Microflex XCEED disposable nitrile gloves with ERGOFORM™ Ergonomic Design Technology are designed to reduce hand fatigue enabling workers to exert less muscle effort and increase productivity.

These innovative gloves support musculoskeletal health while minimizing the risk factors that lead to workplace injuries.

Ansell, ® and ™ are trademarks owned by Ansell Limited or one of its affiliates. US Patented and US and non-US Patents Pending: www.ansell.com/patentmarking © 2016 Ansell Limited. All Rights Reserved.

Ergonomic fit ensures superior comfort and maximum range of motion

under the auspices of the united states Department of Labor, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) collects and publishes data on a wide array of safety-related issues. With statistics supplied by OSHA, in each issue of Safer Every Day we will give you the opportunity to test your safety knowledge.

To play, simply select which of the multiple choice questions is correct. Get five out of five right and you can consider yourself an expert. Three or four correct and your score is average. Get below 3 correct and you have some work to do to enhance your knowledge of OSHA stats.

O S H A

BY THE NUMBERS

Eye injuries alone, cost more than $___ per year in lost production time, worker compensation and medical expenses.

1

A. $300 million

noise above __ decibels over a ___ hour period.

A. 75 and 6 B. 80 and 5

B. $700 million

C. 90 and 10

C. $400 million

D. 85 and 8

D. $250 million

E. 95 and 12

E. $100 million

___% of eye injuries occur because of falling objects or sparks hitting the eye.

2

A. 20% B. 70% C. 30% D. 50% E. 60%

According to OSHA, approximately ____, people per year are exposed to harmful levels of noise at work.

3

Each day about ___, U.S. workers have a job-related eye injury that requires medical treatment.

5

A. 500 B. 1,000 C. 3,000 D. 1,500 E. 2,000

A. 25 million B. 45 million C. 30 million D. 60 million E. 15 million 4

Hearing protection is required if an employee is subject to

DID NOT DO AS WELL AS YOU THOUGHT YOU WOULD? Send us an e-mail at osha@arbill.com or call us at 1-800-55-1222 46 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

A. According to OSHA eye injuries cost more than $300 million per year.

B. 70% of eye inju2 ries occur because of falling objects or sparks.

C. 30 million people 3 per year are exposed to harmful levels of noise at work and since 2004, 125,000 workers have suffered significant, permanent hearing loss.

D. Hearing protec4 tion is required if an employee is subject to noise above 85 decibels over an 8 hour period. This protection must include regular hearing tests performed by trained professionals.

E. Each day about 5 2,000, U.S. workers have a job-related eye injury that requires medical treatment and more than 100 of these injuries result in one or more days of lost work.

1

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 47

MANUFACTURING

OUTLOOK 2017

Manufacturing Activity Should Pick Up in 2017, Even with Persistent Challenges // BY CHAD MOUTRAY, CHIEF ECONOMIST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MANUFACTURERS

48 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

There is a sense of optimism in the air as we begin 2017, especially since the election. Americans appear to be cautiously upbeat about growth moving forward, and equity markets have reached all-time highs, largely on a belief that the new administration will bring needed tax and regulatory reforms and a significant infrastructure package. At the same time, markets are also sensing that additional federal spending might bring about greater debt. Hence, the slumping bond market has sent yields up notably, even before the Federal Reserve raised interest rates in December. In addition, there continue to be a number of policy uncertainties on business leaders’ minds, most notably on trade.

Sentiment surveys have largely reported improved sentiment in recent months, with better demand and output data and modest growth. This includes the NAM Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey, with the percentage of respondents who are positive about their own company’s performance at nearly a two-year high. Beyond manufacturing, consumer confidence rose to a 15-year high in December, and consumers have begun to open up their pocketbooks once again after being very cautious at the beginning of 2016. In addition, homebuilders and small business owners have also been more upbeat, with recent surveys suggesting strong gains in their assessments of future growth. These reports should help to provide a boost to the U.S. economy moving forward.

Real GDP grew 1.9 percent at the annual rate in the fourth quarter. This was slightly less than the consensus estimate of

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 49

NAM MANUFACTURING OUTLOOK 2017 2.2 percent, and it was slower than the 3.5 percent increase in the third quarter. Real GDP growth was buoyed by modest growth in consumer and government spending and by a continuing rebound in business investment, but net exports served as a drag on the headline number. Overall, the U.S. economy expanded 1.6

percent in 2016, down from its 2.2 percent post-recessionary average, and the year was mostly marked by an all-toocautious approach to spending on the part of consumers and business leaders. Yet, by year’s end, that began to change with many Americans and firms more willing to open their pocketbooks.

Moving forward, I would expect 2.6 percent growth in real GDP in 2017—a figure that will likely be assisted by pro-growth policies emanating from Washington. We will also be looking to see better employment data this year.

Indeed, manufacturing employment rose for the second straight month in January, beginning the New Year on an encouraging note. Average weekly earnings in manufacturing have risen 3.2 percent over the past year, up to $1,075.49. We hope this is a sign that manufacturers are starting to accelerate their hiring in light of a stronger demand and production outlook, and it stands in contrast to the more cautious approach throughout much of the past year.

Nonfarm payroll growth averaged 186,833 per month in 2016, which was decent but not broad-based.

For example, hiring among manufacturing declined by 45,000 on net over that time frame. Capital investment was also soft for the same reasons. Yet, the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.7 percent, and it should edge down to 4.5 percent in 2017. Job openings across a wide swath of industries have also been elevated, which gives us hope that hiring should pick up in the months ahead.

REAL GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT

REAL GDP FORECAST  2.6 % (2015)  1.6 % (2016)  2.6 % (2017)

(CHAINED 2009 DOLLARS)

2.0%        

2.6%          

2.0%        

.9%    

.8%   

1.4%      

2015:I

II

III

IV

2016:I

II

3.5%               III

1.9%        

2.8%           

2.5%          

2.3%         

2.5%          

IV

2017:I

II

III

IV

SOURCE: Bureau of Economic Analysis, NAM calculations using Moody’s Analytics simulation model

To be fair, despite the healthier outlook post-election, it is clear that manufacturers struggled mightily over the past two years to increase international demand, particularly with a strong U.S. dollar and lingering economic challenges to key markets. The U.S. trade deficit totaled $502.3 billion in 2016, the highest annual trade deficit since 2012.

Specific to the sector, U.S.-manufactured goods exports fell 3.9 percent in 2016, extending the 6.2 percent decline in 2015.

Moreover, exports were lower in nine of the top 10 markets for U.S.-manufactured goods in 2016, with a small gain in exports to Japan.

Nonetheless, the December trade data seem to indicate a pickup in trade volumes, both for goods exports and goods imports, and we hope that bodes well for improvements in exports in 2017.

With that said, manufacturers have mostly entered the New Year on a cautiously optimistic note. After a couple years of significant headwinds, that news is entirely welcome.

CHAD MOUTRAY is chief economist for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), where he serves as the NAM’s economic forecaster and spokesperson on economic issues. He frequently comments on current economic conditions for manufacturers through professional presentations and media interviews. He has appeared on Bloomberg, CNBC, C-SPAN, Fox Business and Fox News, among other news outlets. He holds a Ph.D. in economics from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from Eastern Illinois University. He is a Certified Business Economist™, where he was part of the initial graduating class in 2015.

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The Expensive Truth About Eye and Ear Claims Impairment of Sight and Hearing Can Lead to Six-Figure Workers’ Compensation Awards

lump sum payments to the employee, even if the employee never becomes disabled because of the injury. If the employee is disabled, the specific losses are often payable in addition to the weekly wage loss benefits. In most jurisdictions, the local workers’ compensation statute provides a schedule of benefits payable to the employee based upon a formula of the weekly compensation rate multiplied by a number of weeks associated with the loss. For example, an employee may receive a lump sum equivalent of 100 weeks of compensation for the loss of a thumb, 400 weeks for an arm, or 300 weeks for serious scarring.

Specific loss benefits are also awarded in cases involving loss of sight and hearing. In most states, hearing loss benefits are paid on a sliding scale, depending upon the level of work-related hearing loss as determined by audiometer testing. Some states also allow for graduated degrees of vision loss, but most only award specific loss benefits for complete and permanent loss of sight in one or both eyes.

Pre-Employment Testing Provides a Baseline If your workplace provides exposure to hazardous levels of noise, it is imperative that all new hires undergo pre-employment audiograms, conhe primary purpose of workers’ ducted in accordance with OSHA standards. compensation benefits is to compensate The results of those tests, and any subsequent employees for time missed from work testing, should be kept on file for all employas a result of a work-related injury, and ees. Subsequent claims of work-related hearto pay for medical expenses related to ing loss can then be measured against the preoccupational injuries or disease. But employment level of hearing loss to limit the claim. nearly all states also provide for “schedOf course, not all hearing loss is work-related, uled” benefits for losses of function in certain body even for employees who work in noisy environparts or certain bodily functions. Most states provide ments. The employee will generally have the burden that an employee will be awarded a specific number to show exposure to hazardous noise, but that can of weeks of benefits for the amputation--or total loss be achieved with lay testimony from the employee of use of--fingers, toes, hands, feet, that the workplace was noisy. For arms or legs. These so-called “specifthis reason, you should also conduct ic loss” benefits are also awarded for regular noise testing at relevant locainjury-related scars that result in distions throughout your facilities. Many figurement. Some states require that states’ workers’ compensation statthe scars be located on the face or utes refer to and adopt OSHA stanneck, while other states compensate dards of hazardous noise exposure. benefits are paid scars on the arms and legs as well.

If yours is a noisy workplace, mandaton a sliding scale in ing the use of hearing loss protection What all of these scheduled injuries most states have in common is that they result in (ear plugs or muffs) is necessary.

T

HEARING LOSS

52 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

review the audiometric testing results and offer an opinion as to whether the employee’s hearing loss characteristics are consistent with noise-induced hearing loss. For one thing, the hearing loss should be bilateral and substantially equal in both ears. Further, audiogram results showing noise-related hearing loss typically graph-out in a particular pattern.

Awards in hearing loss claims are, again, paid out regardless of whether the employee is disabled from working by his hearing loss. Total bilateral hearing loss generally entitles an employee to a lump sum award of 250 weeks of benefits or more, depending on the particular jurisdiction.

The Potential for Six-Figure Liability Highly compensated employees with average weekly wages in excess of $1500 could have a weekly compensation rate of $1000. That equates to potential liability of $250,000 or more for total loss of hearing or the loss of one eye. Given that risk, it is easy to see the value of good quality safety precaution for the eyes and ears in the workplace.

Enforcement of these rules through disciplinary action should not be taken lightly, as simply having safety rules that no one follows will not shield an employer from workers’ compensation liability.

If the employer can show either that (1) the workplace did not expose the employee to hazardous levels of noise, or that (2) the employee wore appropriate hearing loss protection at all times, reducMATT WYNN has been representing employers, ing the noise to non-hazardous levels, insurers and third party administrators throughout the claim will be defeated. However, Pennsylvania for nearly 25 years. He has served most states workers’ compensation as co-chair of the Workers' Compensation Seclaws mandate that employees be tion of the Philadelphia Bar Association and has given the “benefit of the doubt” in published several articles in The Philadelphia close cases, so it is crucial that your Legal Intelligencer on workers' compensation topics from the employer's perspective. Matt testing be performed professionpractices out of the The Law Offices of Matally and convincingly documented. thew S. Wynn LLC, in suburban Philadelphia, and represents clients Even if an employee is exposed to throughout the state of Pennsylvania. hazardous noise in the work-place, If you have a suggestion for a workers’ compensation issue that it doesn’t necessarily mean that the you would like me to address in a future column, or if you have a employee’s hearing loss is related question you would like to discuss, call me at (484) 581-7527 or email at mwynn@wynnlegalteam.com. to that noise. Medical experts can 54 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

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ing or combat environment. When enforced and worn correctly, PPE can help prevent eye injuries.

Proper eye protection includes glasses, goggles, and shields. In addition, procedures that outline when eye protection should be worn, what protection is necessary, how to wear, and the proper care, maintenance and storage, should be put in place.

Each of the services has programs that cover the types of protection, procedures, and standards needed. The Army’s Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) Program is an umbrella program geared to protect the eye, provide eye correction, and encourage use and feedback. The services generally use the Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) manKeys to Protecting Service Members aged by Program Executive Officer Soldier, to find approved eye protection for their service members.

Personal eye protection comes in a myriad of ye safety and protection in the military types and from a substantial number of manufacturers. The APEL is the approved source for findis critical to the effectiveness of our ing the type of protection needed. Environments service members. Every year service members suffer eye injuries that result that expose service members to high velocity in a loss of duty days or worse a disimpacts require the use of eyewear that meets or ability discharge or retirement. Accordexceeds Military Ballistic Standards. Examples of ing to the Department of Labor and high velocity impacts include flying debris such as lathes, grinders, welders and sanders, produced OSHA, eye injuries alone cost more than $300 million per year in lost time, medical expenses, and from machines in maintenance shops or other workers compensation, while the CDC estimates facilities. Machine guards, work area barriers, face direct care costs for older adults with vision impairshields, appropriate signage and emergency eye ment in the US was $8.3 Billion in 2006. While we wash stations are examples of controls that can have made great strides in eye protection equipbe put in place to protect against these hazards. ment and procedures, we must continue to eduAnother hazard, is the use of lasers in training cate and enforce eye safety in everything we do. and combat which puts service members at risk Eye injuries come in the form of from an unseen source. Last year objects striking the eye, contact the Air Force spent $30 million to with chemical or hazardous materibuy aircrew laser eye protection eyeals, and from radiant energy sources glasses and the Army is currently such as lasers or welding operalooking for the Next Generation tions. Hazards from dust, powders, Eye Protection (NGEP), which will fumes, and mists not only present include protection from laser light. themselves as inhalation hazards but The eyewear must exceed military are also dangerous to our eyes. The ballistic fragmentation protection use of Personal Protection Equiprequirements, meet optical quality How much the ment (PPE) is not only required in requirements, be compatible with AirForce spent last our work environment, be it mainteprescription lens carriers and work year for laser eye nance shops, ship board, or on the in varying light conditions according hanger floor, but also when in a trainto the pre-solicitation bid issued by protection for aircrew

Combating Eye Injuries

E

30 MILLION

56 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

the Army’s Natick Solider Research and Develthat can be prevented with proper eye protection. opment and Engineering Center this past July.

Each of the Service’s Safety Centers are excelLastly, off-duty injuries involving working around lent resources for more information on eye protecthe house or playing sports result in a significant tion and safety. While science and technology has number of eye injuries every year and cannot be improved our abilities to overcome injuries it has ignored. Working on the lawn and gardening, or not developed a way to overcome the loss of vision hammering or grinding in the garage, carry the due to eye injuries. Let’s protect what we have now same risks as many of the work environments that through the use of proper protective equipment and we are in during the duty day. Despite those risks, procedures. The eyes have it so let’s keep it! we rarely use Standard Operating Procedures nor have signs or even an eye wash station available. Having the right PPE at BG, MICHAEL BOBECK (RETIRED) home is a must, and can easily be Served almost 38 years on the both on active duty in the Army and full time in the Army National Guard in Aviation and Safety positions. Key purchased from most hardware assignments included Chief of Aviation and Safety for the Army National stores. Sports such as racquetGuard and State Army Aviation and Safety Officer for the NY Army ball, hunting, basketball and activiNational Guard. Active duty tours included the Army and Joint Staff, ties like biking or motorcycle riding 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, are good examples of other activiand 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. He is a Master Army Aviator rated ties with a high risk of eye injuries both in Helicopters and Fixed Wing”.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 57

SAFETY CALENDAR In each issue of Safer Every Day, we’ll keep you updated with a list of EH&S events EVENT

DATE

LOCATIONS

FOCUS

BLR 2017 Safety Summit

4/3/2017-4/5/2017

Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol 701 East 11th Street Austin, TX 78701

Learn practical strategies to avoid violations under state and federal law, improve training to reduce injuries, secure C-Suite and employee buy-in of safety protocols and slash costs.

Michigan Safety Conference

04/11/2017-04/12/2017

Novi, MI

Pre-Accident Investigations

Statewide Safety Expo Training and Management Conference

04/12/2017-04/13/2017

Cosumnes River College 8401 Center Parkways Sacramento, California 95823

Safety training and management focused

NECA Safety Professional Conference

05/22/2017-05/24/2017

Tropicana Hotel 3801 S Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89109

Safety insights for those in the electrical construction industry

2017 NFPA Conference & Expo

6/4/2017-6/7/2017

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center

Brings life to the products and services needed to meet and maintain compliance with codes and standards in the design, construction and operation of buildings.

2017 AIHce Expo

6/4/2017-6/7/2017

Washington Convention Center Seattle Washington 705 Pike St. Seattle, WA 98101

A must attend experience for industrial hygiene/occupational health professionals of all levels, specialties and expertise.

To have your event included in the Safer Every Day Safety Calendar, 58 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

occurring in the next few months.

REGISTRATION LINK

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

COST

CONTACT

CLICK TO REGISTER

EHS and Safety Professionals

Full Conference Pass: $695

800-727-5257 service@blr.com

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety professionals

One Day: $155 Two Day: $180

916-442-8991

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety professionals

Early Registration: $95 Group Discount: $85 Late and onsight: $150

916-442-8991

CLICK TO REGISTER CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety professionals

N/A

301-215-4535

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety professionals

Members: $1,010 Non-members: $1,125

1-800-344-3555

CLICK TO REGISTER

Industrial hygiene/occupational health professionals

Members: $999 Non-members: $1199

1-703-849-8888

click here, & provide the information needed to complete the calendar grid.

Arbill’s | Safer Every Day 59

CALENDAR EVENT

DATE

LOCATIONS

FOCUS

Safety 2017 Professional Development Conference and Expo ASSE

6/19/2017-6/22/2017

Colorado Convention Center Denver Colorado

Join over 4,000 OSH professionals to learn about best practices, case studies, the latest technology and how to advance safety efforts

Fleet Safety Conference

07/24/2017-07/26/2017

Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel Schaumburg, Illinois

Learning to navigate your organization through the myriad distracted driving pitfalls, legal compliance and liability while keeping the company's employees and the public safe.

NAEM 2017 Corporate Sustainability Management Conference

8/1/2017-8/2/2017

Chicago, Illinois

Get insights that will help you improve your company's performance internally as well as having better control of your sustainability data at both ends of the supply chain.

Safety+ 33rd Annual National VPPPA Safety & Health Conference

8/29/2017-9/1/2017

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana

Learn from the berst in safety & health in more than 100 educational sessions. Network with thousands of safety & health leaders and decision makers.

Share your successes and innovations to make workplaces safer across the globe.

2017 NSC Congress & Expo

9/23/2017-9/29/2017

Indiana Convention Center Indianapolis, IN

More than 14,000 environmental, health and occupational safety professionals attend this conference, which features more than 100 technical sessions and professional development seminars.

iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo

10/2/2017-10/4/2017

Kentucky Exposition Center 937 Phillips Lane Louisville, KY 40209

The iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo brings together leading safety and operations minds from across the country for three days of education and networking.

National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference and Expo 2017

12/6/2017-12/8/2017

Mandalay Bay Las Vegas, Nevada

With proven guidance from industry experts, ample time to network and approved for CEU credits, there truly is no better place to find solutions to your workers' comp and disability management challenges.

REGISTRATION LINK

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

COST

CONTACT

CLICK TO REGISTER

OSH and Safety Professionals

Member: $835 Non-Member: $990

1-847-699-2929 customerservice@asse.org

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety Professionals

Fleet Full Conference Pass: $790 Supplier Pass: $1,500

800-576-8788

CLICK TO REGISTER

EHS and Safety Professionals

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety Professionals

VPPPA Member: $835 Non-Member: $1,035

703-761-1146 registration@vpppa.org

CLICK TO REGISTER

Safety Professionals

Member Group Rates: $810 (510 employees) Non-Member Group Rates: $990 (5-10 employees)

1-800-621-7619 congress.expo@nsc.org

CLICK TO REGISTER

Utility Safety or Operations Professional

Conference Pass: $1099

815-459-1796 info@incident-prevention.com

CLICK TO REGISTER

HR and Workers' Comp Professionals

N/A

1-800-727-1227

NAEM Member: $709 Member: $809

Non-

202-986-6616 sales@naem.org

’s

FOCUS EYE & EOAN PROTECTIO R pg N

issue 4, volume 1, spring ’17

EH& Sou S Advicned On Noise

14

THANK YO U

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Exposure

pg 30

Workp Safety lace Secret You Nees to Know d pg 23 OSHA’s Recordke Friend or eping Rule: Foe?

pg 6

PLUS

Produc reviews,t calenda safety evr of & much ents, more!

W

Worke rs’ Comp

The Ex Truth ab pensive and Ear out Eye Claims

pg 52

PROVIDE S INFORMA THE YOU NEE TION D TO KEE EMPLOYEESP YOUR SAFE

E HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS issue of Safer Every Day and found the information useful. Safer Every Day is designed to be an essential component of your company’s safety program, and we want to make sure the magazine meets your needs. To share your thoughts and suggestions, click here to access our suggestions page.

The next issue of Safer Every Day will focus on Tips and Insights to Beat the Heat. It will feature informative full-length articles, heat stress best practices, EH&S insights and additional safety resources.

If you would like to reach more than 35,000 safety professionals, secure your spot today in the upcoming issue by contacting Bill Gabriele at 215-501-8208 or David Gerhardt at 215-501-8287.

3 THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEXT ISSUE

1

Steps to Beat the Heat What you need to know to keep your employees safe this summer

62 Arbill’s | Safer Every Day

Next issue published in June 2017.

2

Injuries Heating Up? Learn common workplace heat hazards and how to prevent them

3

Cool Off Heat Hazards Keys to develop a proper heat stress prevention program

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