Category Archives: Safety

The Reason Why the Anti-Ligature Access Doors are Ideal for High-Risk Environments

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Installing anti-ligature devices like the Acudor Anti Ligature Access Door in high-risk environments such as psychiatric wards, mental institutions, correctional facilities, and prisons are extremely important, as they help prevent patients or prisoners from self-harm.

In this blog post, you will learn why anti-ligature access doors are necessary in high-risk environments.

benefits of anti-ligature access doors

Which areas and items in the building are at high-risk?

Before buying anti-ligature access doors, you should identify the high-risk areas in your building and their ligature points to limit patients and prisoners. Here are examples of high-risk areas and conditions that can contribute to self-harm or aggression:

  • High areas: Rooftops, balconies, windows
  • Access to ligature points: Loose electrical wires, exposed plumbing fixtures, HVAC, doorknobs, window handles, wall-mounted devices, shoelaces, doors, blanket/bed sheets, and many more.
  • Unfinished Construction Sites: Scattered construction materials and equipment

How to reduce ligature risk

Ligature translates to an item or device that you can bind something with tightly, like a rope, wire, or blanket. Mental healthcare and correctional facilities install various products to prevent harm, and aside from installing anti-ligature devices to address this, there are other steps that you can take to reduce ligature danger.

Step 1: Pinpoint high-risk ligature areas

The first step in ligature risk assessment is identifying which rooms and furniture threaten a patient’s safety. Check and assess ceilings, walls, doors, tables, and appliances, and change old items showing wear and tear.

Step 2: Observe which patients or prisoners are at high-risk

Observing people susceptible to self-harm or can be a danger to others is an effective way of mitigating ligature danger. Install security cameras all over the building and hire guards that can immediately intervene should a problem arise.

Step 3: Resident rooms should be ligature-resistant

Although staff and cameras are everywhere to monitor, there would still be instances when more is necessary. But if you create anti-ligature resident rooms, you can effectively ensure their safety.

Step 4: Furnish the rooms with anti-ligature furniture

Installing furniture and instruments with anti-ligature features is highly beneficial for everyone. These include beds, chairs, tables, shelves, and desks.

Step 5: Comply with anti-ligature regulations

The NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code®, is the occupational safety standard for new and existing buildings. The code pertains to the required provisions, such as locks to stop the patient when they become a threat.

If you’re running a prison, behavioral healthcare, and correctional facility, creating a safe environment for everyone is imperative. Installing an anti-ligature access door is a good way as these products can protect them from inflicting harm to others and from themselves. It helps create a ligature-free atmosphere, such as the absence of crevices, holes, openings, or lips, to prevent at-risk people from harming themselves.

Would installing an anti-ligature access door help?

Anti-ligatured furniture, beds, and doors are necessary for mental health, behavioral healthcare, and rehabilitation facilities. Their primary purpose is to mitigate risks and protect everyone, but these high-risk environments still require the usual maintenance and repair services. How can maintenance specialists and repair team access hidden components in an anti-ligature-filled building? The solution is anti-ligature access doors.

Anti-ligature access doors prevent ligature attachment with their fully gasketed fit, fully welded frame flange with radius corners, and a concealed hinge for a smooth installation. In addition, it’s built with no doorknobs or levers, holes, or openings to prevent ligature attachment, creating a safe environment for at-risk and vulnerable people. It’s your effective access solution in high-risk areas!

Benefits of Anti-Ligature Products

Anti-ligature products also possess other benefits other than the protection and safety of vulnerable people. There are also benefits given to the mental health establishment. Here are those benefits:

Aesthetics

Mental health facilities must create their interior design to form a calming environment for their patients. Anti-ligature products are modern, making a stale room relaxing and calming. There are a variety of colors available for these products, so you can customize the space however you want to.

Cost-Saving Products

Dealing with vulnerable patients sometimes leads to the destruction and vandalism of the furniture inside mental health facilities. Purchasing anti-ligature products can save you money on re-buying the same table all over again, as these products possess super durability as these are for vulnerable people.

Final Thoughts

Mental health problems are as severe as any health problems a human can get, as they might lead to self-harm. Still, anti-ligature furniture or devices such as anti-ligature access doors are there to prevent horrible things from happening. These are just little doors that provide a large amount of help.

Coping With Threats to U.S. Water Infrastructure

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U.S. water utilities face a trio of major threats: leaking pipes, natural disasters, and digital insecurity. In response to many recent hacks of our water systems, the federal government is acting to toughen cybersecurity in the water sector. But although the destruction wrought by hackers is more attention-grabbing, larger-scale if more mundane threats also need to be triaged by government and managers of the water infrastructure.

water-treatment-plant

Which is worse for water infrastructure: cyberattacks—or a more ordinary kind of hazard that is almost universal and has been decades in the making? Read on to know more:

Cyber Defense

At a recent hearing of the House Committee on Homeland Security, David Gadis, CEO of DC Water, explained that maintaining a strong cyber defense “is just as much a part of our infrastructure as maintaining our pipes and filtration systems. Robust planning for cybersecurity is no longer optional in the water sector. It is a key part of what we do every day.”

As an example of the kind of attacks that must be prevented, attendees cited the 2021 hack of the Oldsmar, Florida, water system. The bad guy entered a command to increase the concentration of lye to over 100 times the normal concentration.

Lye is used to raise the pH of water in order to minimize corrosion. High concentrations can cause difficulty breathing, internal bleeding, esophageal burns, vomiting, collapse, shock, and even death. Fortunately, the increase in lye was detected almost immediately and reversed before the water supply of Oldsmar could be appreciably affected. No one was poisoned.

Also dramatizing the problem is a more successful attack on a water treatment plant in San Francisco that had occurred a few weeks earlier. The hacker deleted programs used to treat drinking water, and the problem was not discovered until the next day. So far as is known, no one got sick as a result of the temporary interruption of water treatment.

Both incidents call attention to the fact that the nation’s largely independent and insecure water systems are vulnerable to cyber assault: “50,000 security disasters waiting to happen,” in the words of NBC News.

Among critical infrastructures, water systems may be the most vulnerable to cyberattacks — and the hardest to harden against them.

Yet water infrastructure may also be the target of highest value for hackers eager to cause trouble on as large a scale as possible. (Meanwhile, as if to increase our anxiety about the vulnerability of digital systems, we’re learning that various foreign spy agencies often seem to be able to traipse through government and private networks in the US at will.)

To improve the cybersecurity of public water systems, the Biden administration has recommended new rules that place more responsibility at the state level and that require cybersecurity audits in addition to existing sanitary surveys. But experts have criticized the plan for doing too little and also for overlooking many practical difficulties.

The Greatest Threat to Water Systems?

Although cyber threats are a great and growing problem, water infrastructure in the United States is facing a homegrown threat that is even larger — orders of magnitude larger. Indeed, it’s everywhere. And the cost of saving the nation from this threat and providing more sustainable water management may run into the trillions.

Why Salt-Free Water Softeners Are Critical for Wastewater Management

Hackers can attack a single water system: one system among tens of thousands of independent systems. But the larger threat we’re talking about is already attacking a large number of water systems at once, knocking entire municipal systems offline and turning pipe networks into Swiss cheese. Alas, the problem is so familiar that, for the most part, it’s not really setting off any alarms.

This threat is simple wear and tear. Water systems are falling apart.

Normally, the pace of wear and tear is more manageable. But for historical reasons, a great deal of the country’s water infrastructure is breaking down at the same time — now. Part of the explanation is that as U.S. pipe networks were being laid from the late 19th century through the 20th century, the quality of the pipe was diminishing. So over a century’s worth of pipe all has roughly the same expiration date. As a result, the costs involved in detecting and fixing leaks are pervasive and growing.

Concern about hackers targeting our communities is understandably more immediate and intense than concern about gradual deterioration. The rising number of cyber assaults on critical infrastructure, including water infrastructure, is definitely a crisis. But it shouldn’t steal the spotlight from the much bigger threat to water infrastructure we must grapple with: old age.

How To Deal With Domestic Oil Spills

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Having your own private oil tank can be beneficial as you do not have to rely upon the main network which is typically less cost-effective and gives you less control over energy consumption. But having an oil tank installed also has its drawbacks. You have to be extra careful with it as not only its installation is complex but its maintenance requires a lot of hard work.

 

From ensuring that all the complex technicalities of installation are met to ensuring that the tank is in proper condition to function, now and then, you have to be careful at every single step.

And if you fail to do so or even lag slightly, you would expose yourself to the possibility of experiencing oil leakage or oil spills.

how to deal with domestic oil spills

What happens if domestic oil spills?

If your tank starts spilling oil, the oil won’t just stay there but it will flow out to contaminate the adjacent areas. And if left untreated, it could go on to contaminate groundwater and soil.

This could lead to contamination of wells and water supplies of adjacent properties. Once the water supplies are contaminated, it could cause a myriad of drinking water problems. For example, oil damages the plastic water pipes so when it seeps into the underground water channel, it can affect the water pipelines that will ultimately lead to bad taste and foul odor in the drinking water.

Apart from this, oil spills can have a serious impact on human health as well. The first threat to human health spilled oil is through contaminated drinking water.

The second harmful impact they can have on our health is through disastrous fumes. As all petroleum products contain volatile compounds therefore when the oil is spilled it releases gases. If people nearby inhale these fumes or are surrounded by the vapors that linger in the air longer than usual, they can experience eye irritation, nausea, dizziness, headaches, drowsiness, and disorientation.

However, these symptoms are related to short term exposure to oil fumes. When a person is exposed for a very long time, which could happen if the smell of the fumes does not erupt shortly, then he could experience more serious conditions that would require a doctor’s consultation.

Skin irritation can also arise due to prolonged exposure or contact with the fumes. One could experience redness, severe irritation, and swelling.

How to handle oil spills at home?

Oil spills happen at both small and large scales. The larger ones require proper oil contamination treatment but the smaller ones can be dealt at home. But, this will require all of your attention and efforts. However, a domestic oil spill is not always easy to deal with, especially when the spill is massive and gets out of your hands.

 

Regardless of that, we should know a few tips and tricks to be well prepared to handle any such mishap because once an oil spill skyrockets, it causes severe damage to the surrounding and human health -as we discussed above.

The first thing that you must do when you have an oil tank placed in your residence, always check it regularly to look for any rusting or other damage to the tank. This way you can easily be one step ahead to deal with any leakage.

Somehow, if you fail to attend to any such damage and the leakage eventually occurs but it is small, place a pan where the tank is leaking to collect the spilling oil before it even touches the ground.

If this too gets out of hands and the oil starts spilling on the floor, try blocking that area to prevent the oil from spreading any further. You can do this by placing small dams as barriers and if that does not work then try using absorbents like cat litter, or sand.

If the flow of the oil dripping from the split of the tank gets a bit controlled then you can easily apply a sealant on the split. However, this is not a permanent solution as sealant only works temporarily. But this should give you enough time to contact professionals who deal with oil contamination treatment.

On the other hand, you have to protect yourself and your family in the midst of dealing with this chaos. This first thing you should do when your home smells of oil is to ensure maximum ventilation.

Open all the windows as well as doors so that the strong oil smell does not accumulate inside. This will also help in warding off the harmful petroleum fumes.

The next thing you have to do is to make sure that all of your family members, and especially children and pets are away from the spill location. If possible, have them evacuate the house for at least the time when the house is cleared of the smell and fumes.

While dealing with domestic oil spill, make sure that your skin and clothes do not come in contact with the oil. Remember to avoid smoking, drinking, and eating during and after you finish dealing with the oil spill. Also, try to examine the tank for the origin of the leak, and before doing that, make sure that the oil supply is turned off.

Who deals with the cleaning of oil contamination?

You can take care of the oil spill to some extent, but cleaning is entirely another process. All the things that have been contaminated with the oil, be it water, ground, or soil, only a team of specialists can do it properly.

Therefore, you should first call the professional before taking on the mission of curing the leakage flow, and when the team arrives, you leave the place immediately to ensure your health.

Bottom line

Dealing with domestic oil contamination might not be impossible but it is not recommended. The only thing you must do after calling the professionals is to ensure no one is around the site. Then let the expert team, who come with efficient methods of oil spill clean Up & bioremediation, take care of the rest.

How Magnetic Lock Systems Work – Pros and Cons to Know Before Upgrading

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Are you considering upgrading the locks on your property? If so, magnetic lock systems could be an effective way to add security to your home or office. But as with anything else, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of these locks before making your upgrade decision.

In this post, thankfully, we’ll cover the major questions you might be having in mind, including how magnetic lock systems work, their benefits, alongside some drawbacks to consider before making a decision. Read on to find out more!

Pros and Cons of Magnetic Lock Systems

How Magnetic Lock Systems Work

Also known as mag locks or electromagnetic locks, magnetic locks use powerful magnets to secure a door. When current passes through the electromagnet in the lock, it is drawn towards the armature plate attached to the door, holding it securely shut.

To open these doors, special access cards or codes are used. These activate an electric release system, which then disengages the magnet so one can push on the door handle and enter.

Due to their immense reliability, magnetic locks are commonly used in premises such as bank back offices, government offices, airports, hospitals, and commercial buildings in areas that require a high level of security.

Pros of Upgrading to Magnetic Lock System

Magnetic locks offer a myriad of advantages to property owners and operators, both in terms of security and convenience. One of the major benefits of magnetic locks is that they make it incredibly difficult for unauthorized persons or potential intruders to gain entry. They are also fairly easy to install, easy to use, and do not require physical keys.

And since card access systems can be added or upgraded quickly and easily at any time if needed, the need for costly lock replacements is diminished significantly over time. Moreover, magnetic locks reduce energy costs due to their lack of a mechanical lock or cumbersome electrical wiring required by other locking options.

This is not to mention that modern versions can be integrated with remote control access, which allows authorized users to lock or unlock the door from a remote location.

Pros at a Glance

  • Magnetic locks provide enhanced, high-level security
  • Easy to install, use, and upgrade if needed
  • Reduced energy costs
  • Can allow remote control access for convenience

Cons of Upgrading to Magnetic Lock System

One of the main drawbacks of magnetic locks is that they require a large initial investment, though this cost can be advantageously spread out over time. Furthermore, depending on your property’s existing access card system, integrating it with a new magnetic system may prove difficult and costly as well.

Additionally, entry codes or card-swipe access must always be kept secure and up to date to ensure maximum security from potential infiltrators or criminals who might try to compromise the lock itself.

Finally, if the power goes out due to an unforeseen event, all electronic locks may cease working until restoration occurs, unless you have a power backup plan.

Cons at a Glance

  • Require large initial investment, though costs can be spread out over time.
  • Integration with existing access card systems may prove difficult.
  • Entry codes or card-swipe access must always be kept secure and up-to-date.
  • A power outage can disrupt the functionality of electronic locks.

In conclusion, upgrading your doors with magnetic locking systems can be a great way to not only enhance your property’s security but also increase convenience and ease of use. By putting measures in place to mitigate the potential drawbacks, you can enjoy the benefits provided by these lock systems to the fullest.

4 Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home

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In daily life, we make use of several different gases, liquids, and solids, without which life isn’t livable. And it’s not just oxygen that we use in daily life to keep the heart pumping, but there is an entire list of gases that are essential to keep on with life.

One of the most vital gases among all the other is carbon monoxide. This a potent and valuable gas that charges up heaps of electricity and starts up your cars. It’s essential to know what carbon monoxide is as it is widely used inside homes and can be just as dangerous as it is needed. It is a highly flammable gas that, if left unwatched, can create fire and unimaginable damage. For this reason, below are some ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home to use it effectively and safely.

1. Address Issues

Carbon monoxide is a combustible gas and can be quite dangerous to have in a closed space, but it makes for many of the essential procedures used in a home. Your heating system most probably is run by carbon monoxide. And if it experiences a tear and a leak, the house could be in danger of destruction, and the residents could suffocate.

Check your heating and other fuel-burning appliances regularly to avoid any mishaps. It is best to get them maintained each year by professionals who can also check the systems for their effective running.

2. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Mostly carbon monoxide can be detected by its firm odor similar to that of rotten eggs. This smell helps to give you a heads up to get out of your home and call for help. However, when there is a slight leakage that is undecidable, or the house residents aren’t awake to notice it, the situation can take a turn for the worst.

Some states have laws that require homes to have CO detectors installed. These detectors should be present on each floor, especially the basement and areas where there are fuel appliances and heaters. It is best to make sure the indicators are installed near bedrooms to get alerts while sleeping.

3. Check the Air Quality

In small houses or congested areas of a home, air can get trapped, and different gases can get clogged, the air quality unhealthy and dangerous to breathe in. Make sure that where you have your oven, furnaces, and fireplaces situated has a proper ventilation system installed. If there are vents already in place, check the air quality and clean them often.

4. Put Out Burners Effectively

Cooking is a necessity in all homes, and even though many households have replaced gas burners to electric burners, there are still many that use the gas cooking method. The gas used for cooking and heating is carbon monoxide, which is sturdy and highly combustible.

To keep safe from sources like these, make sure not to switch on stoves unnecessarily. Keep your fireplaces and furnaces covered to stop the gas from spreading and lingering in the air. Regularly validate that these places are well kept and clean. Also, make sure that the systems work well.

Health And Safety Considerations In Plumbing: What You Need To Know

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It goes without saying that plumbing can be a hazardous job. From exposure to harmful materials, electric shock, or potential falls through roofing, the risks of injury are real. As an experienced plumber, you should always take safety precautions before starting any job.

This article will delve into some of the key health and safety considerations when it comes to plumbing work.

health and safety considerations in plumbing

1. Keep It All Clean

Using an effective drain cleaner can help prevent blockages that can lead to plumbing problems down the line. Choose a product which is designed specifically for use on toilets, sinks, bathtubs and showers in both residential and commercial buildings.

Alternatively, you can invest in professional drain cleaning services, eliminating the need for more drastic measures down the road.

2. Wear Protective Gear

The most important precautionary measure is wearing protective clothing such as gloves, goggles and boots while on the job site. Make sure these items fit correctly and are in good condition at all times for maximum effectiveness.

Additionally, always wear a hard hat when working on roofs or any other elevated areas.

3. Check Tools

Inspect all tools and equipment before using them, as they could be dangerous if not in proper working order. Make sure clamps and blades are sharp, pipe cutters are aligned correctly, and wiring is secure and insulated.

Also check for gas leaks at each job site, and take the necessary steps to make sure it’s safe to proceed with work.

4. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

As a plumber, you’ll be working in many different environments. Make sure to pay close attention to your surroundings at all times and keep an eye out for potential hazards such as wet floors or sharp objects.

Additionally, be aware that certain areas may contain hazardous materials like asbestos and make sure to take the necessary precautions when handling them.

5. Take Breaks

It’s important to take regular breaks while on the job site so that fatigue doesn’t set in and cause a serious accident. Try to stick to a regular schedule throughout the day and make time for lunch, snacks and water.

Additionally, be aware of any signs of dehydration or exhaustion so that you can take a break when necessary.

6. Practice Good Hygiene

Plumbing work often involves coming into contact with waste, dirt and other potentially dangerous materials. As such, it’s important to practice good hygiene both on the job site and when you return home.

How Much Does Plumbing Cost For A New House

Make sure to use gloves while working and clean your tools thoroughly after each job; it’s also a good idea to shower as soon as possible after finishing up for the day in order to reduce any risk of exposure to contaminants.

7. Wear Fall Protection

If working in an elevated area, it is essential to use fall protection equipment like harnesses and lanyards. Be sure to inspect this gear before each use, secure it properly and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Additionally, take appropriate precautions such as setting up guardrails or using protective scaffolding when necessary.

8. Read Instructions Carefully

Familiarize yourself with any product you are using for a plumbing job, including safety warnings and usage instructions. Always read labels carefully before handling materials and be aware of any potential risks associated with the product or procedure being used.

Taking some extra time to review the instructions can help ensure that everything is done safely and correctly without putting yourself or others at risk.

In Conclusion

No matter how experienced you are at plumbing, it’s essential to always take steps to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Wearing protective gear, regularly inspecting tools, using drain cleaners whenever necessary and taking regular breaks throughout the job site are just some of the key health and safety considerations that should be followed when performing any kind of plumbing work. Doing so can help reduce the risk of injury or illness while on the job.

Recommended Reading: Things to Look For in a Plumbing Service Provider

6 Safety Management Tips For Dam Owners

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Humans have increasingly become dependent on electricity, which is due in no small part to the many advances in technology. From healthcare and commerce to the way people communicate with each other, everything that makes life livable now requires electrical power.

With all the growing demand for electricity, government and business leaders are continually pressured by the public to find ways to generate more power while keeping the planet safe. Renewable energy is the buzzword for finding the balance between power generation and giving the environment a much-needed TLC (tender loving care).

That said, water is one of the most common sources of renewable energy – it generates hydroelectricity, which makes up around 44% of renewable energy in the U.S. alone. Harvesting hydropower involves harnessing the flow of water. In other words, hydropower plants require dams to be built to hold and control the water that’ll turn the generators or turbines, generating electricity.

But hydropower is just one part of the equation. Water is essential for humans, without which life won’t even be possible. From hydropower to drinking water supply, dams will continue to be vital for humanity’s survival. Owners must manage their dams effectively to keep them safe and working. Doing so can prevent risks that may result in loss of life and property.

dam-safety-management

Challenges Posed By Dams

Most dams used for hydropower generation and water supply are man-made–they’re made up of concrete. Hence, there are structural and stability challenges that need to be solved. You don’t need to see a movie just to know what might happen if a dam is breached.

 There was a time when operators relied on visual inspection, photos, and interpretation by engineers to analyze a dam’s safety levels. Today, there are state-of-the-art monitoring tools to help dam operators. Hence, there are now advanced solutions that allow dam owners to keep the structural integrity in check.

Take the case of Hunter Water Grahamstown Dam in Australia. This dam is designed to provide a drinking water supply and recycled water service to an area with approximately 600,000 people. As a storage dam, it constantly presents challenges that can compromise its structural integrity.

Using modern dam monitoring tools, Grahamstown Dam owners can effectively manage the dam’s integrity in a remote setting. In turn, this allows nearby residents to sleep soundly at night. The secret lies in using AI technology, such as Rezatec’s Dam Monitoring solution, to remotely churn out geospatial data that tracks everything–from ground movements to moisture levels. Nothing is left to chance or open interpretation. Also, fewer visual inspections are now required.

Dam Safety Management Tips

Indeed, humans have completely changed the way water is stored–whether for drinking or generating power. In a study aimed at monitoring and taking a closer look at the changing levels of global freshwater sources, researchers used NASA’s satellite and found that humans are now responsible for 57% of the planet’s seasonal water storage, which is happening in reservoirs and dams.

With the ever-increasing world population, it’s logical for one to think that more reservoirs and dams will be built in the foreseeable future. Whether it’s for drinking or harnessing hydropower, dams are here to stay. Owners and operators must learn to manage their dams dynamically.

Taking a cue from what operators did in managing the safety of the Grahamstown Dam, here are some tips on how to keep dams safe and functioning properly for years to come.

1. Create A Dam’s Risk Profile

No dam is perfect. For one, there’s always a trade-off among costs, location, and capacity when designing and building dams. It’s left to the owners to make the best out of the dams they’re managing. In a bid to reduce risks, owners should always know the status of their dams. For one, they should define risk areas and be aware of the dam’s weaknesses.

By creating a dam’s risk profile, managers won’t be caught unaware should disasters occur. For instance, if a barrier was designed to withstand a 10-magnitude earthquake, then a reading of 11 on the Richter scale should put workers on full alert even if the dam isn’t breached. Emergency inspections and responses should also be triggered.

2. Effective Dam Monitoring In Place

Dams, like the one in Grahamstown, require continued monitoring. There’s no shortcut to knowing or tracking the structural integrity of a dam except via monitoring.

In the past, owners relied on photography and visual inspections. The problem was the data gathered could be biased and were open to misinterpretation. Hence, it would be best to adopt AI-based solutions to ensure accurate monitoring data.

3. Ready Access To Construction Documentation

Dams are big structures and they’re often made up of different segments and materials. Making things more complicated is the fact that no two dams are the same–each has its own design features.

When managing a dam, the people responsible for it should have access to the dam’s design and construction blueprint. By doing so, managers will be less likely to do things that can compromise the dam’s structure and functionality.

4. Prioritize Incident Reports

Dam workers must be required to report all incidents that occur, including emergencies and operational shutdowns. Such reports will keep the management in the loop and enable key players to recommend a plan of action to prevent such incidents from happening again.

dam safety guide

5. Operations And Safety Manuals At The Ready

Dams are run by different people working in various shifts. While training workshops are essential for new and experienced workers, people tend to forget what they’re trained for. It’s crucial to have operations and safety manuals readily accessible to ensure that everyone is on the same page while operating the dam. This way, workers won’t be left guessing on what to do in case emergencies, such as cyber assaults, happen.

6. Multi-discipline Management Approach

While new technologies allow remote, scalable, and cost-effective dam management, it’s still vital to have human operators and engineers tracking changes or investigating anomalies. Environmental sciences should work with soil engineering and other disciplines. AI should also work with good old-fashioned human insights.

By combining multiple disciplines, dam owners will be more confident in reducing risks and meeting regulatory requirements across different sectors.

Conclusion

Dams are vital for human survival. They can be harnessed to provide water supply and electricity. Due to this, expect that there will be more dams built in the foreseeable future.

With that in mind, owners and operators should learn how to keep dams safe and effective to prevent loss of life and property.

Noise Soundproofing vs Noise Cancelling Earbuds: Which One is Better for Work

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We live in a noisy and dynamic environment. For that, we are striving that at least in our free time or when in office, we can have our peace and quiet. For that, there are numerous alternatives, such as renovating the office with soundproofing materials, that block the noise from our side as well as from other colleagues, or by some earbuds with noise cancellation options.

Wireless earbuds are pretty new to many people, but their popularity has grown in leaps and bounds over the last half a decade. They are among the recent innovations that have come at the right time- when people are desperate for peace and quiet. These earbuds now have advanced features such as the ability to block out noises so that users can enjoy their music in public spaces without the interference of unwanted background noises. They have the ability to lessen or eliminate car horn sounds, noises from chatty colleagues, or even music in the streets.

If this is the first time you are considering acquiring these advanced earbuds, you probably have come across two unfamiliar terms- noise soundproofing and noise-canceling earbuds. You are now curious to know how different the two are and which one is the best option for your noise-drowning needs. Well, they both reduce noise and the key difference is in how well they do it. They are also made of different soundproofing materials and with different technologies.

Nevertheless, it is important for businesses and organizations that constantly tend to boost and improve their workers’ productivity, to invest in offices that are soundproof from exterior noise and do not bother their workers.

There are multiple alternatives that companies can use to soundproof and absorb noise, some being more expensive and some more affordable. One affordable method that can be applied is using plants. Studies have shown that plants have a very high absorbing power of noise, where it leaves divert the noise and in this context absorb it. This, for businesses, presents an advantage, given that they also have benefits such as releasing oxygen and making the work environment look better. However, if the office does not have much natural light, make sure to use LED Grow Light, which will enable the plants to grow indoors without natural light.

How Soundproofing Earbuds Work

Noise soundproofing is the basic technology of drowning background noises. These earbuds work by sealing off your ear canal so that any extra ambient noise is blocked from accessing the ear canal. Your ear is isolated from your immediate surroundings.

How Noise Cancelling Earbuds Work

Noise cancellation does more than just isolate your ear. These earbuds come with a more advanced functional design that creates an anti-noise barrier around your ears. This technology emits signals that neutralize sound waves around your ear, so that no sound gets to your ear canal.

Which Earbuds are Better For Work?

Which wireless earbuds will work best for your needs: noise cancelling or noise soundproofing? In all fairness, both work impressively well in reducing noise. Each of them is unique from the other, so it is impossible to say that one is better than the other. We shall look at the differences that define each of them and then you will choose the one that best suits your preferences.

1. Noise reduction abilities

Soundproofing earbuds muffles sounds with an intensity of 30 decibels and below. Noise-canceling earbuds can muffle external sounds with an intensity of 85 decibels or even more. To give you an idea of what decibels mean, a human being speaking normally will produce a noise of 15-20 decibels. That is to mean that soundproofing earbuds will drown out noises in a chatty office, but they won’t be too effective in a busy airport. Noise-canceling earbuds will effectively cancel out an airplane that takes off with noises of around 80 decibels.

However, some low-cost noise-canceling earbuds are made from cheap soundproofing materials, so they allow more than necessary ambient noise to pass through. The active technology that helps these earbuds to reduce noise intensity cannot be 100% effective without quality soundproofing material. There are some high-end noise soundproofing earbuds that outdo low-cost noise-canceling earbuds in this regard.

2. Quality of sound

In this aspect, noise soundproofing and noise-canceling earbuds are almost at par. They both give you the best quality sound, both in noisy places and in isolated environments. Even if you aren’t fond of using earbuds when traveling or in the office, you can still buy the best budget noise-cancelling headphones for domestic use.

Ensure that you buy from reputable brands and dealers because cheap earbuds might not give you the best quality sound. Brands that manufacture earbuds using low-quality soundproofing materials sometimes exacerbate the noises instead of eliminating them.

3. Power Consumption

Because noise soundproofing earbuds are designed to block out external noise without canceling it, they are basically mechanical in nature. Noise-canceling earbuds, on the other hand, need electrical energy in order to create magnetic waves that then cancel out sound waves. They come with chargeable batteries that you have to charge your noise-canceling earbuds occasionally.

4. Price

As you can guess, maintaining noise-canceling earbuds is more expensive than maintaining soundproofing earbuds because of their difference in power consumption. The upfront cost of noise-canceling earbuds is also higher than soundproofing earbuds due to the extra technology they come with.

Conclusion

There you have it! As you can see, both earbuds are way better than wire earbuds. If not for anything else, they make the user appear sophisticated and cool. They both make your music sound pretty good too. Whichever decision you make, you can bet that you will get the best value for your money.

How to Protect Transgender Employees in the Workplace

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When you think about workplace safety, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s being issued protective equipment to reduce injury, processes to report employer misconduct, or a clear and concise evacuation plan in the event of a fire or other emergency.

For many of us, feeling safe at work is something we’ve become accustomed to and may take for granted. But for others, especially members of minority groups and the LGBTQ community, workplace safety can feel like an afterthought.

This is certainly true for transgender individuals. Transgender – or trans – is the term used for people whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned to them at birth. Some trans people identify as trans men or trans women; others describe themselves using descriptive terms including non-binary, genderqueer, gender non-conforming, agender, or bigender. One in three Americans know someone who is transgender – these are our friends and family members, our neighbors, our peers, and our colleagues.

transgender employees

Challenges Facing The Transgender Community

The trans community faces tremendous stigma in society, and discrimination against transgender people is all too common in school settings and the workplace. The Center for America Progress notes that “90 percent of transgender workers report some form of harassment or mistreatment on the job” due to their gender identity. This includes being overlooked or fired from a job, having received a negative performance review or been denied a promotion, or verbally or physically abused.

Employers should familiarize themselves with the challenges facing their trans employees. Doing so can help ensure employers are in compliance with federal, state, and local laws established to help protect the trans community, but also with the goal of creating a healthy workplace environment for all.

1. Gender Dysphoria

Some trans people might experience something called gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria refers to the discomfort and distress felt among individuals whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth. This condition can become debilitating and interfere with day-to-day activities. Mind Diagnostics offers a confidential test that may be helpful when looking to determine if you’re experiencing gender dysphoria. Based on the results, you can work with your doctor to help manage your feelings.

2. Violence

The rate of discrimination against trans people at the workplace is staggering, and stigma and harassment are also rampant in society. In some cases, harassment can become violent and even life-threatening. According to Human Rights Campaign, the rate of violence perpetrated against trans people is more severe than that against the average person. The majority of transgender people have experienced violence at the hands of an intimate partner, and 47% have been sexually assaulted. Nearly 30 trans and gender non-conforming people were violently killed in 2020.

3. Lack of Healthcare Coverage

The U.S. healthcare system falls short when it comes to serving the trans community. Human Rights Campaign Foundation data shows 22% of trans people and 32% of trans people of color live without health insurance and 29% have been refused healthcare because of their gender identity.

4. Poverty

Studies show that 29% of trans adults live in poverty, and this figure increases for trans people in the Black, Latinx, Alaska Native, Asian, Native Americans, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.

Workplace Discrimination Against Transgender People Is Illegal

The Supreme Court ruled in 2020 that federal law prohibits anti-transgender discrimination in the workplace (Bostock v. Clayton County). Yet, more work is needed to ensure all employees are properly protected.

The National Center for Transgender Equality offers helpful information about transgender rights and the avenues transgender individuals can pursue should they be discriminated against at work. In summary:

  • Federal law makes it illegal to fire, refuse to hire, harass, or otherwise discriminate due to gender identity, gender transition, sex assigned at birth, or transgender status.
  • Trans people have a right not to be fired or refused a job or promotion because they are transgender.
  • Severe or widespread sex-based harassment is unlawful when an employer does not take steps to stop it. Harassment may include jokes or derogatory comments, intentional misuse of names or pronouns, and invasive or disrespectful personal questions.
  • Trans people have the right to safe and adequate access to restrooms and other facilities consistent with their gender identity.
  • Employers cannot prohibit or force a trans person from disclosing their transgender status or gender identity, nor can they disclose someone’s transgender status without consent.

How to Increase Welding Safety?

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Welding can be particularly dangerous to those operating the equipment and others around the site if proper safety procedures aren’t used, risks aren’t considered, and safety standards aren’t met.

If you are reviewing how you can conduct welding tasks in a safer way, here are some major hazards to bear in mind and the personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to combat them.

Think about common hazards when welding

1. Welding in confined spaces

When operating in a confined environment, there is a serious risk that there could be a lack of oxygen that could result in an accident or injury.

dangers-of-welding

The gases which are used in welding, such as argon, CO2, and nitrogen, can displace the air within an enclosed space, creating a risk of passing out.

Consider whether the work can be carried out without needing to enter the space, and if this isn’t possible then use a safe system of work and establish a rescue plan.

2. Exposure to gases and fumes

As well as gases creating suffocation risks, other gaseous fumes can damage your lungs. The level of damage will depend on the gas, but occupational asthma, pneumonia, and even cancer are all associated with specific fumes.

3. Electric shock

This is potentially the most serious risk with arc welding. Both TIG and MIG welders carry a risk of electric shock when used improperly, as live electrical circuits are utilised to heat the metals for welding.

Whether through a direct shock or through touching part of the welding, it could result in serious injury or fatality. Certain conditions, such as wearing damp clothing or being surrounded by metal flooring, can increase this risk.

4. Burns

As you’d likely expect from working with high-temperature welding arcs and molten metals, severe burns can occur when welding. These can happen incredibly fast if you’re not careful and skip safety protocols.

5. Fires and explosions

In addition to burning the person welding, sparks generated can fly as far as 35 feet away from the welding area. Combined with the extreme temperatures created, this can start fires if given the chance.

Inspect for and remove any flammable materials from the nearby areas – this could be liquids like petrol, solids such as wood and paper, or gases including hydrogen and propane.

6. Excessive noise

Prolonged exposure to loud noises exceeding 85dB(A) can do permanent damage to your hearing, with welding being capable of reaching over 100dB(A). Without proper hearing defence, you could experience noise-induced hearing loss.

7. UV exposure and infrared radiation

When welding, the bloom of UV light which is produced can damage your eyesight. This is why welders need eye protection and welding curtains to prevent this. Long-term effects could lead to a loss of vision, cataracts or foreign bodies entering the eye.

Wear proper welding PPE for safety precautions

Employers have a responsibility to provide proper PPE to any employees tasked with carrying out welding tasks, helping to prevent bodily harm and keep people safe.

welding-gear

1. Welding helmets

This will shield you from all manner of hazards – UV radiation, debris, chemical burns, etc. Ensure your helmet is fitted with the correct lens to combat the type of work you’ll be doing and adjust the filter to get a balance between visibility and proper protection.

2. Respirators

Use the right form of respirator to protect your respiratory system from the oxides and fumes which will be generated by the work you will carry out.

3. Fire resistant clothing

As burns can occur quickly in a welding environment, fire resistant clothing is needed to shield you from heat, fire and radiation. This needs to cover any pockets and feature no cuffs where things could get caught inside. Do not roll up sleeves or the ends of trousers as the folds could trap molten metals.

4. Ear defenders

Make sure that ear protection is worn to protect you from noise generated in your workplace and use fire resistant earmuffs where there could be a risk of something entering your ear canal.

5. Worker boots and gloves

These need to meet the required standards for the workplace to provide adequate protection. Gloves need to be insulated and flame resistance to protect from shocks and heat, while boots should be rubber-soled and feature steel-toecaps to further insulate from electricity as well as shielding your feet from heavy objects.

Welding gloves don’t offer enough mobility for delicate tasks, so the welder should have options. A well-fitting pair of chemical-resistant nitrile gloves is essential for work that requires precision and a soft touch, such as mixing chemicals and applying paints, stains, and other solvents.

Conclusion

By being aware of the potential hazards and what PPE is needed when welding, you can implement further safety measures that take these things into full consideration, whether you’re in an industrial environment or working at home in a workshop.