Safety Scoops & Articles
October 2024 Safety Scoop: Lock Out, Tag Out
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October 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Lock Out, Tag Out
Lock out is the use of a single lock or multiples locks to render machinery or equipment inoperable or to isolate an energy source.
The purpose of lock out is to prevent an energy-isolating device from accidentally or inadvertently being operated while workers are performing maintenance on machinery or equipment.
Here's the Scoop:
What is Lock Out Tag Out?
Why is Lock Out Tag Out important?
What is Tagging Out?
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This ½-day course introduces participants to the principles of how to properly use energy isolating devices and the tag out labeling process to increase safety and reduce risk in the workplace. Whether you are a newly hired worker or an experienced employee, this program will expand your knowledge of LOTO procedures.
The LOTO course summarizes the key components of a LOTO program and is intended to guide you in understanding the aspects of a Lock out/Tag out system.
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
September 2024 Safety Scoop: Stress Management - Collab with Thriving Workplaces!
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September 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Stress Management - A Collab with Thriving Workplaces!
Stress management involves strategies and approaches designed to help individuals cope with and mitigate the effects of stress on their physical and mental health. Stress can arise from various sources, including personal life challenges, major life changes, and especially the workplace.
Effective stress management in the workplace is crucial for maintaining both individual well-being and organizational efficiency. This month's Safety Scoop, in collaboration with Thriving Workplaces, leads us through strategies to build resilience in the workplace and finding balance in our physical and mental workloads.
Interested in more? Join Brandy from Thriving Workplaces in a webinar hosted by the MHSA as she instructs us on Finding the Balance Between Priorities and Capacity.
This webinar will be taking place on October 24, 2024 from 12 - 1 pm. Register now!
Thank you to those of you who tuned in to this week’s webinar presented by EHS Partnership’s Ltd.
It provided fantastic directions on how to reasonably incorporate machine guarding and safety into our Health & Safety Management systems in an approachable way, depending on the types of machine hazards faced. As well as touched on the applicable legislation and industry standards to reference when doing so.
If you missed out on this webinar or if you’re interested in more information, reach out to Kristen Petaski at EHS Partnerships Ltd. kpetaski@ehsp.ca
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
August 2024 Safety Scoop: Noise Exposure & Hearing Protection
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August 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Noise Exposure & Hearing Protection
Noise exposure is one of the most common workplace hazards. Using guidelines established through experiments, we can determine if the level of sound is tolerable or dangerous to your hearing.
See the Scoop to learn more!
Here's the Scoop:
What is noise?
Nosie Exposure assessment
Noise Management program
And more!
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
July 2024 Safety Scoop: Machine Safeguarding with EHS Partnerships
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July 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Machine Safeguarding with EHS Partnerships
Machinery poses a significant hazard in many workplaces, often exposing workers to severe, life-changing injuries. Risk assessment is the cornerstone of machine safety. Without a comprehensive task-based risk assessment, it is impossible to determine the appropriate safeguarding controls.
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Here's the Scoop:
What is safeguarding
Identifying hazards
AB OHS Code
And more!
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Basic Machine Guarding
This 1-day course teaches participants the importance of safety guards and devices on machinery to prevent machine-related injuries. Employee injuries due to exposure to unguarded or inadequately guarded machines are preventable and this course focuses on recognizing and controlling general hazards associated with the operation of machinery.
TOPICS INCLUDE:
•Recognizing and controlling common machinery hazards
•Point of operation guarding
•Power transmission devices
•Machinery operating controls
•Hazardous motions and actions
•Alberta OH&S Safeguard requirements
By the end of this course you will:
•Understand the importance of locking out machinery and equipment
•Understand employer and worker responsibilities for safe operations of machines
•Recognize the advantages and limitations of safeguarding devices
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
June 2024 Safety Scoop: Vehicle and Driver Safety
June 2024 Safety Scoop: Vehicle and Driver Safety
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June 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Vehicle and Driver Safety
Inadequate vehicle maintenance, neglecting pre-use inspections, and poor driving habits can significantly increase the risk of accidents. This Safety Scoop will touch on important points and factors to help you be a safer driver.
Here's the Scoop:
Vehicle pre use inspection
Distracted driving
Safe driving tips
And more!
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
May 2024 Safety Scoop: Material Handling
May 2024 Safety Scoop: Material Handling
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May 2024
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This month we would like to highlight Material Handling
Material handling is the integral process of moving, storing, and controlling materials throughout the manufacturing, distribution, and disposal stages of a product's lifecycle. Efficient material handling ensures that goods are transported safely and timely from one location to another, minimizing damage and optimizing productivity.
This process encompasses a variety of equipment and systems, including conveyors, forklifts, and automated storage and retrieval systems, tailored to meet the specific needs of different industries and operations. Proper material handling not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to workplace safety and cost reduction by streamlining processes and minimizing manual intervention.
Here's the Scoop:
Hazard Assessment
Danger Zones
Legislation
And more!
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Forklift Operator
This 1-day certification course is designed to provide participants with classroom training along with practical confirmation of safe forklift (with vertical mast) operation. This course teaches forklift operators to operate in a safe and efficient manner which includes written theory and practical confirmation.Note: Upon successful completion of confirmations, a certification, valid for 3 years, will be issued. Rigging Essentials
This 1-day interactive course teaches participants the essential rigging principles and practices used in rigging symmetrical and non-symmetrical loads.TOPICS INCLUDE:How to inspect, select and use slings, hardware and below-the-hook lifting devicesHow to determine load weight, centre of gravity and pick pointsHow to calculate sling tensionRecognizing and staying out of the danger zone and crush pointsHow to use tag lines and hand signalsUtilizing the Rigging Resource Centre to search legislation and rigging standards
Participant learning is reinforced by conducting practical exercises in load weight and rigging assorted loads.
Overhead Crane
This 1-day interactive course is for workers who operate overhead cranes and for supervisors who oversee crane operation. This course has been created to follow the Alberta OHS “Guidelines for Safety Training of Overhead Crane Operators and Supervisors”. This course will teach participants how to safely use overhead cranes through a combination of classroom and practical instruction.The classroom instruction consists of presentations and discussions, whereas the hands-on training involves demonstrations followed by practical exercises. All activities are led by an experienced instructor.Topics include:Legislated requirementsOverhead cranes, jib cranes, portable gantry cranes, monorail, and workstation cranesPre-operational requirements and post operational requirementslift planning and hazard assessmentOperational requirements - safe operating position, controlling load swingTurning a load over and tandem lifts
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
April 2024 Safety Scoop - Pallet Racking Safety
April 2024 Safety Scoop: Pallet Racking Safety
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April 2024
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This month we have collaborated with North American Storage Equipment to highlight Pallet Racking Safety
Pallet racking safety in Alberta is of paramount importance to ensure a secure and efficient warehouse environment. Employers and employees must adhere to the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations, which provide specific guidelines for the installation, maintenance, and use of pallet racking systems.
Regular inspections and maintenance checks are essential to identify and address any potential hazards, such as damaged beams or improperly secured loads, which could lead to accidents or injuries. Additionally, proper training for employees on safe loading and unloading practices, as well as weight limits and load distribution, is crucial to prevent overloading and structural failures. Compliance with these safety measures not only safeguards the well-being of workers but also promotes productivity and operational efficiency in the warehouse.
Here's the Scoop:
Legislation
Building / Fire Code
Canadian Design Standards
And more!
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Forklift Operator
This 1-day certification course is designed to provide participants with classroom training along with practical confirmation of safe forklift (with vertical mast) operation. This course teaches forklift operators to operate in a safe and efficient manner which includes written theory and practical confirmation.Note: Upon successful completion of confirmations, a certification, valid for 3 years, will be issued. Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
March 2024 Safety Scoop: WHMIS
March 2024 Safety Scoop: WHMIS
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March 2024
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WHMIS, which stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, is a comprehensive system used in Canada to provide information about hazardous materials in the workplace. It is designed to ensure that workers have the necessary knowledge and training to handle these materials safely.
WHMIS is based on three key elements:
Hazard identification: WHMIS categorizes hazardous materials into three main classes: physical hazards, health hazards, and environmental hazards. Each class has specific criteria to identify the hazards associated with a particular material.
Labels: WHMIS requires hazardous materials to be labeled with standardized symbols, known as pictograms, that indicate the type of hazard posed by the material. These labels also include other important information, such as the product identifier, supplier information, and precautionary measures.
Safety data sheets (SDS): SDSs provide detailed information about the hazards associated with a particular material, as well as instructions for safe handling, storage, and disposal. SDSs are typically provided by the material's manufacturer or supplier and must be readily accessible to workers.
Overall, WHMIS is an essential part of workplace safety in Canada, ensuring that workers are informed about the hazards they may encounter and how to protect themselves.
Here's the Scoop:
WHMIS Legislation
WHMIS Training
WHMIS Application
And more!
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
February 2024 Safety Scoop: Fit for Duty
February 2024 Safety Scoop: Fit for Duty
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February 2024
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"Fit for duty" typically refers to an individual's physical, mental, and emotional readiness to perform their job responsibilities effectively and safely. This concept is often applied in various professions, especially those that involve critical tasks or responsibilities.
To be deemed "fit for duty," an individual should meet the necessary health and performance standards required for their specific job role. This may involve regular health assessments, adherence to safety protocols, and maintaining a level of physical and mental fitness that ensures the individual can carry out their duties competently and without posing a risk to themselves or others.
Here's the Scoop:
What is Fit for Duty
Signs of impairment
Common side effects of fatigue
And more!
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Developing & Managing Your Fit for Duty Policy & Program (DER Training)
The role of a Designated Employer Representative (DER) or Program Administrator can be challenging, especially considering the complex provincial and federal legislative
responsibilities inherent within a workplace Fit for Duty / Drug and Alcohol program.
This ½-day course will prepare both new and experienced DERs and Program Administrators to effectively manage a workplace Fit for Duty program in a way that considers cost, liability, compliance and health and safety. Participants will benefit from a review of current concepts and case studies, testing equipment demonstrations and receipt of materials to support the implementation of a Fit for Duty program upon return to their workplace.
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!
January 2024 Safety Scoop: Environmental Protection
January 2024 Safety Scoop: Environmental Protection
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January 2024
Environmental protection involves awareness strategies and actions to mitigate the adverse impacts of hazardous substances on the air, soil, waterways, and the ozone layer.
These measures aim to create a sustainable balance between human activities and the preservation of the Earth's vital ecosystems.
Here's the Scoop:
Environment
Environmental Responsibility
Hazards to the environment
And more!
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Hazard Assessment
This 1-day course teaches participants how to properly identify, assess and control workplace hazards in accordance with Alberta Occupational Health and Safety legislation. Participants will learn the MHSA basic method of recognizing, evaluating and documenting workplace hazards.
Hazard assessment is the keystone of a successful health and safety management system and, therefore, must be performed correctly and reviewed regularly to ensure the workplace remains free of unnecessary hazards.
Topics include:
Alberta OH&S Code Part 2 Hazard Assessment, Elimination and Control
Benefits of performing hazard assessments
Methods of hazard identification, assessment and control
Hazard assessment techniques
Hierarchy of hazard controls
Upon completion of the course you will be able to:
Develop a comprehensive approach to hazard identification for your workplace
Identify the common types of existing and potential health & safety hazards
Evaluate hazards associated to specific jobs and tasks
Prioritize hazards in terms of the level of risk they present to workers
Identify practical hazard control methods applicable to your workplace
Review and maintain hazard assessments on a regular basis.
Visit our course calendar to explore other courses, see availability in your region, and register today!