5/24/2021 With the exception of site visits and oversight audits, hand tools are a vital part of our day-to-day operations in the field. And, as simple and even unassuming as many of these gadgets may be, when used improperly or without providing our full attention, a potential accident is never Read more
11/21/2011 During this past year, the technique known as hydraulic fracking, or simply, fracking, has surfaced (and yes, for those of you that are familiar with this process, excuse the unintentional pun) in the national media. Many of us might not even be aware of this process, or, at least, Read more
10/17/2011 The Autumn Equinox has now past and therefore the evening hours have overtaken the daylight, only to continue its encroachment on our hours of sunlight rendering the days to grow dimmer as we near the Winter Solstice. Hence, while we may have field work that is technically designed to Read more
3/22/2021 We recently had some “grubbing” that needed to be performed on one of our projects. Grubbing is the process of removing brush and their roots as well as clearing land due to heavy plant growth. This activity is typically performed so that other activities can be conducted and usually Read more
4/18/2011 High pressure lines, whether compressed air hoses, hydraulic lines or water spray operations for daily decontamination, need to be properly managed as they represent an array of hazards to the operator as well as persons within the immediate area. As hydraulic systems become more complex, and pressures and temperatures Read more
3/21/2011 So there I was, there I was…in the Congo! No, no, actually I was at the Albuquerque Airport waiting for a plane. I was watching two maintenance workers performing patch work on a wall between a Baskin-Robins and a bookstore (When is “The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest” Read more
12/14/2020 Many of our projects require working with machines and devices that operate by rotating motion. Drill augurs, pumps, turbines, gearboxes, compressors, engines, as well as certain hand tools (i.e. power rachets), present a potential workplace hazard due to their unique rotating action. The rotating parts can cause serious injury Read more
10/19/2020 Working around heavy equipment has its challenges. Indeed, ensuring these pieces of yellow iron are properly maintained and that the work environment is adequate for their proper operation is essential. Poor maintenance and inadequate space for these pieces of equipment to maneuver can result in significant contact with other Read more
3/16/2020 It was at a very busy work area when a bin truck, while backing up, accidentally ran over a loose cable that was attached to its front. As the truck kept moving backward, the cable got tighter to the point that the tension became so great it became a Read more
1/20/2020 Over the past few months, while attending several tailgate meetings, I have brought up the topic of hazard assessments and hand protection. The fact is, in 2019, we have had more than our fair share of hand injuries. And, in just about every instance, the injured worker did not Read more