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Fian Safety Consulting, LLC - Professional Safety Consultants, Weatherford, TX (2026)

08/12/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Back support belts, also known as “back belts,” “back supports,” or “abdominal belts,” have been widely used by workers in various industries to prevent injury during lifting tasks. However, the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Here is what we know:

1) Lack of Scientific Support: After reviewing the available literature, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to either support or refute the effectiveness of back belts in reducing the risk of injury. In other words, we don’t have strong scientific data to confirm that back belts actually deliver the promised benefits.

2) Biomechanical Effects: Some claims suggest that back belts reduce the force exerted on the spine, remind wearers to lift properly, or decrease workplace injuries. However, these effects lack proven links to injury prevention. Even if back belts produce certain biomechanical effects, their impact on injury rates remains uncertain.

3) Negative Health Effects: Long-term use of compression style back support belts can lead to muscle atrophy, setting up the wearer’s spine for injury later. Additionally, restricting motion for one part of the back requires other muscles to bear the load, which can result in injury to those muscles. It’s essential to be cautious when relying on these belts for extended periods.

4) Ergonomics Programs Are Key: Instead of relying solely on back belts, companies should prioritize comprehensive ergonomics programs. These programs focus on redesigning work environments and tasks to minimize lifting hazards. NIOSH emphasizes that the most effective way to prevent back injuries is through such holistic approaches.

5) Test new proven technologies like the SafeLift Exosuit from Verve Motion: While back belts do not have conclusive scientific evidence to substantiate effectiveness, there are new technologies that do. One of the most effective is the SafeLift Exosuit. It provides assistance in parallel with underlying musculature to reduce work done by biological muscles. The exosuit wears like a backpack but takes 40% of the strain off a worker with every lift. Now that is impressive! For more information contact us at Fian Safety Consulting, LLC.

In summary, while back belts are commonly used, they should not be considered a “cure-all” solution. Employers and workers should prioritize ergonomics, safe lifting practices, and proven new technologies over relying on back belts.

04/08/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Personal fall arrest systesm (PFAS) must be rated for the conditions underwhich they will be used. Failure to consider the potential environmental conditions can lead to catastrophic failure and death.

OSHA recently released a Fall Hazard Alert that was prompted by the death of a worker whose fall protection lanyard was severed by an exposed edge as he fell. Exposed edges may include floors, roofs, decks, platforms, or formwork.

The alert lists safe practices for employers in 3 main categories: Pre-Planning, Providing the correct equipment, and Training.

Employers must:
• Inspect fall protection equipment before it’s used and cover exposed edges that could come in contact with a lifeline or lanyard “regardless of the edge’s composition.”
• Make sure the covering or protective material won’t move when a lifeline or lanyard slides across it.
• Limit fall distance or use another control method to avoid lanyard or lifeline contact with the edge, if covering is not feasible.
For more information you can get the OSHA alert here:https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA4414.pdf

04/01/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:
According to the latest data available from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are approximately 34,900 serious injuries and about 85 fatal accidents related to powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts, each year in the United States. It’s important to note that these numbers can vary from year to year and are subject to updates as new data becomes available. Always refer to the latest OSHA reports or their website for the most current information.

To significantly reduce workplace injuries related to powered industrial truck accidents, employers can take the following five effective strategies:
1. Training and Certification:
o Ensure that all operators of powered industrial trucks receive comprehensive training.
o Cover safe operating procedures, load handling, and emergency protocols.
o Regularly assess operators’ skills and provide refresher training as needed.
2. Regular Equipment Maintenance:
o Establish a preventive maintenance schedule for all industrial trucks.
o Regularly inspect brakes, tires, hydraulics, and other critical components.
o Address any issues promptly to prevent accidents due to equipment failure.
3. Safe Operating Practices:
o Emphasize safe driving habits, including proper speed, turning, and braking techniques.
o Encourage operators to maintain clear visibility and use mirrors effectively.
o Never use the forks to lift personnel unless an OSHA approved lift cage is properly secured to the lift and both the operator and person being lifted have been properly trained.
4. Traffic Management and Segregation:
o Designate separate paths for pedestrians and industrial trucks.
o Clearly mark pedestrian walkways and forklift routes.
o Implement traffic control measures to prevent collisions.
5. Risk Assessment and Hazard Mitigation:
o Regularly assess the workplace for potential hazards related to industrial truck operations.
o Mitigate risks by implementing engineering controls, such as barriers or warning signs.
o Involve employees in identifying and reporting safety concerns.

Remember, a proactive approach to safety is essential for preventing workplace injuries and ensuring the well-being of employees!

03/25/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

In 2022 (the most current, complete data available), there were 2,066 fatal and 68,560 non-fatal workplace injuries attributed to vehicle accidents in the U.S. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), these incidents accounted for 38% of all occupational fatalities and approximately 3% of all non-fatal workplace injuries. Before you think that 3% isn’t much, there were 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries in the U.S. in 2022 meaning that the actual number of non-fatal workplace injuries attributed to vehicle accidents is 84,000.

Employers can implement several practical measures to reduce the risks of vehicle accidents in the workplace. Here are just a few:
1. Check and Monitor Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs): Regularly verify drivers' MVRs to ensure valid licenses and no outstanding violations.
2. Keep company vehicles well maintained: Implement daily pre-use inspections for all vehicles and have them serviced on schedule to keep them in peak operating condition. Address all identified issues immediately.
3. Implement a fleet telematics/driver management system: These systems may incorporate GPS tracking and camera monitoring to help identify deficiencies in driver skill and at-risk behaviors that need to be corrected.
4. Provide recurrent driver skills training: statistically drivers who participate in recurrent skills training tend to have a lower rate of driving incidents. There are several good training programs available; The Smith System (www.drivedifferent.com) and JJ Keller (www.jjkellertraining.com) are two of the highest rated.
5. Create and Implement a Distracted Driving Policy: Establish guidelines to minimize distractions while driving, such as avoiding phone use, eating, and adjusting radio settings while driving.
6. Enforce safety measures: Require employees to wear seatbelts at all times, obey traffic laws, and practice basic defensive driving skills.
7. Allow drivers to take breaks. Fatigue can contribute to accidents, so encourage rest breaks during long drives.

Remember, prioritizing safety benefits everyone on the road!

03/21/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Strain injuries due to awkward working postures and improper lifting are both high frequency and high cost. A formal body mechanics/industrial ergonomics program is one of the best ways to reduce the risks of these types of injuries. An effective program includes the following elements:

1: Detailed evaluation of high risk work tasks using a Job Hazard Analysis (JSA)/Job Safety Analysis (JSA) looking for opportunities to eliminate or reduce risks using the hierarchy of controls.

2: Task specific training that includes a discussion and demonstration of proper work postures and lifting techniques.

3: Stretch and Flex program that teaches employees how to take care of themselves and recover from working in awkward postures.

4. Research and implementation of new technologies/tools, and equipment that can reduce the risk.

03/21/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Strain injuries due to awkward working postures and improper lifting are both high frequency and high cost. A formal body mechanics/industrial ergonomics program is one of the best ways to reduce the risks of these types of injuries. An effective program includes the following elements:

1: Detailed evaluation of high risk work tasks using a Job Hazard Analysis (JSA)/Job Safety Analysis (JSA) looking for opportunities to eliminate or reduce risks using the hierarchy of controls.
2: Task specific training that includes a discussion and demonstration of proper work postures and lifting techniques.
3: Stretch and Flex program that teaches employees how to take care of themselves and recover from working in awkward postures.
4. Research and implementation of new technologies/tools, and equipment that can reduce the risk.

03/18/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Slip, Trip, Fall related injuries continue to be a primary loss driver in a variety of industries. Here are some key preventative measures that will reduce the risk of these types of injuries:

1. Clean Up Spills Immediately: If you encounter a spill or wet surface, address it promptly. Use appropriate cleaning materials to remove any hazards.
2. Install Warning Signs: Place warning signs in areas where floors are freshly mopped or wet. These signs alert people to potential slip hazards.
3. Choose Proper Footwear: Wear shoes with good support and slip-resistant soles suitable for your job task. Proper footwear significantly reduces the risk of slipping.
4. Maintain Good Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting both indoors and on outdoor walkways. Proper illumination helps prevent tripping over obstacles.
5. Secure Electrical and Phone Cords: Keep cords out of traffic areas to prevent tripping. Use cable organizers or tape to secure them.
6. Install Handrails: Handrails on stairways provide stability and prevent falls. Make sure they are sturdy and well-maintained.
7. Be Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings. Whether you’re on the work floor or outdoors, things can change quickly. Stay aware and adjust your movements accordingly.

Remember, these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in both the workplace and everyday life. Stay safe!

03/11/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

When conducting a workplace injury investigation, having a thorough description of the incident that answers all possible questions is essential to accurately determining the root cause(s) of the injury, which, in turn, is essential to developing effective preventative and/or corrective actions that will reduce the risk of a similar occurrence.

03/04/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

When providing safety and health information to employees, three key points to remember are:

• Management Leadership: Employers should demonstrate strong leadership by actively promoting safety and health practices. This includes setting clear expectations, allocating resources, and fostering a culture of safety within the organization.
• Worker Participation: Involving employees in safety programs is crucial. Employers should encourage workers to participate in safety committees, hazard assessments, and reporting incidents. Engaging employees empowers them to take ownership of their safety and contributes to a safer work environment.
• Systematic Hazard Identification and Mitigation: Employers must adopt a systematic approach to identifying and addressing workplace hazards. Regular inspections, risk assessments, and proactive measures help prevent injuries and illnesses. Fixing hazards before they cause harm is more effective than reactive approaches.

Remember, compliance with safety regulations benefits both employees and employers, leading to reduced costs, improved productivity, and enhanced overall business operations.

02/26/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:

Safety signs are perhaps the most cost-effective investment when it comes to workplace safety. Simply putting up these signs across the workplace and construction sites reduces the risk of accidents by 80 percent. This shows that workers need to be reminded about the potential dangers they might be facing, especially in property management where various hazards can exist.

02/05/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:
Workplace unintentional overdose deaths from nonmedical use of drugs or alcohol have increased 619% since 2011. Overdose deaths totaled 525 in 2022, equivalent to nearly 9.6% of all occupational injury deaths in 2022. This highlights the importance of substance abuse awareness and prevention in occupational safety. Sources: injuryfacts.nsc.org, OSHA.gov, altermedia.com

01/29/2024

Safety Truth of the Week:
Employers should never assume employees know the safest way to perform tasks regardless of how simple they may seem. It is the responsibility of the employer to train employees on the safest methods/techniques for performing all work-related tasks. When employers fail to provide training on simple tasks, they set themselves and their employees up for failure. In the absence of a company standard, employees will rely on what they have done in the past and what they perceive to be acceptable. This often leads to employees taking unnecessary risks and increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Fian Safety Consulting, LLC - Professional Safety Consultants

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