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June 25, 2014

Plant, Pools, and Insects: What are Your Summertime Hazards?

As we officially enter the summer months, different types of hazards on job sites arise. Summer weather means many more job tasks are done outside, and a knowledgeable workforce will make a safer site.   Jobs such as tree trimmers, landscapers, meter readers, fire fighters, park or highway maintenance employees, and surveyors, are often more susceptible to outdoor hazards. 
Here are some course titles addressing common outdoor hazards that are great to use as a training refresher.
Poisonous Plant Safety: 

The prime hazard from poisonous plants is the allergic reaction from the resin produced by the plant.  The reaction can come from direct or indirect contact such as being carried by smoke, or touching tools, animals, equipment, or clothing that has been in contact with the plant.  The best way to avoid exposure to poisonous plants is being able to identify and avoid the hazardous plants as well as the risks associated with them.

Wasps and Spiders:

Bites and stings from certain spiders and wasps can quickly become serious.  The best way to prevent a bite or sting is to know the habitats for each insect and the warning signs of the bite/sting.  Dangerous spiders like dark or hidden places such as lumber, stacked materials, shoes or gloves that have been left out, and areas that have been undisturbed for a period of time.  Hornets on the other hand colonize in virtually anything with an opening; holes in the ground, old tires, cans, or buckets.  For either type of injury the best prevention is to be aware of the insect hazards at the work site, and if stung or bitten, remain calm and get prompt medical treatment.

Pool Chemicals: Who, What, Where, & How:

Pool chemicals contain a variety of disinfectants and sanitizing chemicals used to control growth of algae and bacteria in the pool.  The most common chemical used is chlorine, which can be extremely dangerous, even deadly, if not used properly.  Some tips from this course include: follow instructions carefully, use specified measuring cups for each chemical used when treating pool water, wear appropriate protective equipment, add chemicals to the pool water (never the other way around), and thoroughly wash hands after handling chemicals. 

Each of these courses, originally produced by Digital-2000, relay preventative measures as well as basic knowledge of risks associated with these summertime hazards.  Use these courses for a more in-depth awareness of these hazards.  Visit mastery.com for even more training courses.
What hazards is your work site prone to in the summer?

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