Protect yourself by wearing all the necessary personal protective equipment. Never look at an electric arc with the naked eye it's ultraviolet rays can damage unprotected eyes. Wear the proper shaded lens and welding shields to protect yourself from flash burns.

Before you begin welding make sure you are in a well-ventilated area. Work safely around compressed gas and gas cylinders. Never use matches to light a torch! Remember to check hoses for any holes or damaged connections.

When shutting down welding operations safely remember to turn off your welding machine, pick up leads, shut off gas cylinders and replace safety caps. Look over work area to check for anything burning or smoldering. Keep a fire watch in the area for at least 30 minutes after you're finished.

Volume 33 Issue 47

Holidays mean joining family and friends for fellowship, food, and cheer. However these joyful celebrations can also present some common hazards that include drunk driving, kitchen dangers and foodborne illnesses.

Each year 1,200 people die in drunk driving crashes just between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Always designate a driver who will not be drinking if you are. Never get behind the wheel of any vehicle if you have been drinking.

Food is an important part of holiday festivities, so it's important to keep a close eye on food safety. Keep all food preparation surfaces clean. Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after preparing food. Remember that meat, poultry, and fish dishes can spoil if left out on a counter. Make sure all food is fully cooked. Cover leftovers promptly and get them into the refrigerator. Dispose of expired food.

The video below is for informational purposes only:

Severe weather comes in many forms including flash floods, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, windstorms etc. Some severe weather arrives with plenty of notice, giving us time to prepare. However, there are times when severe weather arrives without warning.
This safety blog entry is to educate you in becoming prepared for severe weather.

Lightning causes an average of 55 to 60 fatalities and 400 injuries per year. Hurricanes can create winds that exceed 125mph. The key to keeping safe in all kinds of weather is to have a plan of action:

- Keep a weather radio on hand, with extra batteries.
-Have a lightning monitor to place at your jobsite so you know when to get down from elevated areas, shut down cranes and lower aerial lifts.
-Post emergency numbers near phones
-Take action as soon as you hear the weather warning sirens.
-Secure loose materials around jobsite if you have sufficient time.
-Stay away from electrical equipment, wiring and pipes during thunderstorms.
-Never drive, walk or swim in floodwaters.
-Take shelter if you hear thunder nearby.

Here is a video I found regarding storm education that you might find useful: