Getting Started

Workplace safety is often focused on workers doing rigorous tasks in industries with the perceived highest occupational risk, such as construction, mining, oil and gas, and manufacturing. However, one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, and one of the most costly to employers, affects those workers whose time is spent in offices and laboratories […]

Job Safety Analysis (JSA) is a trusted and essential process for integrating EHS best practices with individual job tasks in order to improve workplace safety and efficiency. In short, JSA is a formal process for the assessment of workplace hazards, and for developing and implementing hazard prevention methods. Job Safety Analysis was first conceived as […]

What is Formaldehyde? Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical with a strong, pungent odor and a variety of associated health hazards. This chemical, which is used in the production of many materials, has a wide variety of applications across several industries. Formaldehyde is used to create resins, adhesives for plywood and carpeting, paper products, insulation, polyurethane, […]

The OSHA final rule governing respirable crystalline silica calls for all covered employers to maintain a written exposure control plan. But what exactly needs to be in this plan? Who should create or update it? How should it be used? This guide will try to provide some clarification as to exactly what OSHA is looking […]

What is Multipurpose Lubricant? Available in a variety of brand names, multipurpose lubricant, also known as penetrant spray, has been used for over 60 years. The multiuse spray has a variety of uses in both home and commercial settings. This product is most commonly used to: Remove dirt, grease, grime, and residue from many surfaces […]

What is Ammonia? Ammonia is a colorless gas with a characteristically pungent odor. One of the most common industrial chemicals in the U.S., ammonia is used primarily as an agricultural fertilizer. Other uses for ammonia include: Potential Ammonia Health Hazards Ammonia gas reacts instantly with the moisture in the skin, eyes, mouth, and respiratory tract […]

What is Xylene? Xylene is a colorless liquid chemical with a somewhat greasy consistency. This chemical is present in small quantities in gasoline and other fuels, comprising approximately 0.5-1% of crude oil. Millions of tons of xylene are produced each year, as the chemical is used as a solvent in the printing, leather, and rubber […]

A previous post concluded with the advice to manage MSD risk factors and mitigate risks properly. That brings up another question: How do you manage MSD risk factors and identify the appropriate metrics to manage your ergonomics process properly? Here are 5 key metrics to track. A risk profile is critical to identify where exposures […]

OSHA has approved the launch of a State Plan in the state of Maine, which will be responsible for enforcing safety and health requirements for government employees. This plan becomes effective immediately. “This is a major milestone for Maine public employees and the state’s development of its occupational safety and health program,” said OSHA head […]

OSHA has issued a new guide for employers on its training requirements and standards. The guide — Training Requirements in OSHA Standards — includes information designed to help businesses avoid citations and keep workers safe. The new guide organizes requirements into five categories: general industry, maritime, construction, agriculture, and federal employee programs. It also features […]