|
Accident Prevention - Take One Step
|
Take One Step > Categories
|
9/13/2010
Date: September 8, 2010
To: Superintendents of Education, Principals, Vice Principals, and Managers
Copy to: Office Managers
From: Janan Di Nola, WSIB Officer
Re: First Aid Compliance
It is that time of year again to update all of our first aid information and to ensure that we have qualified first aid personnel at each work location. Regulation 1101 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act states, "all employers are required to have first aid equipment, facilities and trained personnel in all workplaces."
The Peel District School Board (PDSB) is required to comply with the following:
Have certified first aid personnel at each work location
A first aid station containing all relevant information and supplies
Update first aid boxes and their contents and record the inspections
Post the WSIB poster known as Form 82
Record all circumstances related to an accident
First Aid Certification Requirement
Each work location is required to have one full time staff member trained in standard first aid, but it is preferable to have at least two staff members with valid certification. It is also preferable that a member of the support staff in the school be one of the certified personnel, but this is not mandatory. If your location does not meet this requirement, please submit the names of up to two full time employees who are interested in becoming first aid certified. The Peel District School Board will cover the cost (for 2) of this training, however the employee is required to complete the course on their own time. If you already have two staff members at your location with current certification, please do not submit additional names.
Course Schedule
Listed below are the dates, times and location of the courses being offered by the PDSB through SJA:
Dates Time Location Registration Deadline
Session 1 (Wed/Thurs) 4 Evenings St. John Ambulance, 8-A Rutherford Road South
October 13, 14, & 20, 21 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm Brampton, ON L6W 3J1 September 30th
Session 2 (Sat/Sun) 2 Day (Weekend) St. John Ambulance, 110 Matheson Blvd West
October 16 & 17 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Mississauga, ON L5R 4G7 September 30th
Dates Time Location Registration Deadline
Session 3 (Sat/Sun) 2 Day (Weekend) St. John Ambulance, 8-A Rutherford Road South
November 6 & 7 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Brampton, ON L6W 3J1 October 15th
Session 4 (Wed/Thurs) 4 Evenings St. John Ambulance, 110 Matheson Blvd. West
November 10, 11 & 17, 18 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm Mississauga, ON L5R 4G7 October 15th
If your location does not have staff with valid certification, please complete the registration form below with the name(s) of the staff member(s) who are interested in obtaining certification, along with their choice of session and send it via courier to the attention of Eva Haté, Health, Wellness & Safety, CBO. Each location will be required to send a cheque ($100 per registrant) along with the registration. These cheques will be returned to the location once your staff have successfully completed the course. Confirmation will be sent via email on receipt of the registration and cheque(s).
Each location is responsible to ensure that staff who register are committed to completing the training, or to find a replacement prior to commencement of the course (substitutions will not be permitted in between sessions). The PDSB will cash the cheque(s) of locations whose staff register and do not attend, or do not successfully complete the course.
Requirements for First Aid Supplies, Stations and Inspections
Attached you will find a checklist of the supplies that are required to be included in your first aid boxes. Please check to ensure that your work location has all the supplies listed on this checklist. These sheets will also serve as your quarterly inspection sheets.
Please note: There are two different requirements for first aid supplies based on the number of workers. Please follow the one that applies to your workplace.
1. Facilities with more than 5 and not more than 15 workers;
2. Facilities with more than 15 and fewer than 200 workers.
A first aid station shall contain a first aid box with the required items. All items should be maintained in good condition and in plain view and easily accessible. Valid first aid certificates should be posted on your health and safety bulletin board. It is the responsibility of the certified worker to ensure the supplies are updated on a regular basis. These inspections shall take place no less than at quarterly intervals, and the certified worker shall sign the inspection card for each box along with the date of the most recent inspection. Equipment/supplies outside the scope of those listed on the checklist should not be included in the first aid box, e.g. medication or ointments.
Requirements for the Form 82 poster The large poster entitled In case of Injury at Work (Form 82), must be posted in every workplace where all workers can see it. The poster outlines the responsibilities and obligations of both the employer and the worker when an accident occurs on the job. To print your copy please go to http://inet.peelschools.org/departments/humres/HealthandSafetyWebsite.htm
If you have any questions, concerns or comments, please do not hesitate to contact the Health, Wellness & Safety Office at 905-890-1010 Ext 2444 or 2424.
Thank you all in advance for your time and your support in making our worksites safe places to work.
Sincerely,
Janan Di Nola
WSIB Officer 5/24/20101. Size up the load. Test it to see if you can lift it safely. Can you grasp it securely? Make sure the load is balanced in your hands. 2. Get as close to the load as possible before lifting it. 3. Make sure your footing is secure. Do not lift objects that obscure vision and footing. 4. Do not twist while lifting! Move your feet so that they point in the direction of the lift as you turn. 5. Lift smoothly, but not slowly. Do not jerk the load. 6. Organize the work so as to avoid lifting from the floor or above shoulder level. Items to be handled should be between knee and shoulder height. 7. Keep the load as close to your body as possible. If the load is large and cannot be placed between your knees as they are bent, bend at the hips and waist with your knees relaxed. It is more important to keep the load close than it is to bend your knees. One solution to lifting a larger load is to get another person to help you. A better solution is to use mechanical assistance (hand trucks, carts) to avoid lifting altogether. GET HELP WITH LARGE LOADS. 8. Alternate lifting tasks with lighter work to give your body a chance to recover. 9. Use the same principles when lowering or placing the load after lifting. Place carefully Sited: http://www.ergodoc.com5/17/2010
One of the easiest ways to strengthen your abdominal muscles -- and support your back -- is through good posture.
You may feel like you're already standing straight, but in reality, most of us stand like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Practise good posture by bringing your head and neck back. The key element is breathing in to tighten your gut. That's the component that lifts your chest and will give you Marine-like posture.
Here are the five steps to perfect posture:
1. Pull your shoulder blades back slightly toward each other and down away from your ears.
2. Lift your chest up and out.
3. Pull your head back just enough to keep it in line with your spine.
4. Position your pelvis or hips to create or maintain a natural arch in your lower back.
5. Pull your belly button in toward your spine without changing or tilting your hips or losing the arch in your lower back.
Sometimes the smallest changes in your life can lead to the biggest results. Sucking in your stomach while you do crunches, or even when you take the elevator, is a good example. It helps your body not only look younger -- by skimming a couple of inches off your middle and adding them to your lungs/chest -- but it also helps your body get stronger, because you're engaging your abdominal muscles.
* printed from RealAge.com 4/26/2010This year when your child begins looking for work, you should know that the Ministry of Labour (MOL) places a great deal of importance on their safety in the workplace. According to the MOL, young workers fall between the ages of 15 and 24 and account for 15 percent of the workforce in Canada. Statistics show that young workers are twice as likely to suffer injuries at work compared to adults, and 5 times more likely to get injured in the first four weeks on the job.
Based on research conducted across the country, at new jobs, young workers find that:
• Most tasks they are assigned involve work they aren't familiar with;
• They are afraid to ask for help or question existing work methods for fear of looking incapable or 'stupid';
• They don't have the experience to know how to recognize workplace hazards;
• They fall back on trust. Children are taught to respect and listen to adults, so when they don't know what to do, they decide to trust their employers to look out for their safety - which is one of the worst times to rely on trust;
• They don't get training, demonstrations, or supervision;
• The employer / worker relationship is new, and young workers don't always know how they are expected to relate to their 'boss';
• Some adults in the workplace don't know how to relate to young workers, and may not take the time to explain the basics to them.
Take time to speak with your young worker and have them ask the questions listed below, before they accept a new job, or better yet, ask the employer yourself. Getting involved is one of the best ways to ensure your child's safety.
1. How can a young worker be injured doing the job?
2. What kind of training and supervision will my child receive?
3. What safety procedures need to be followed?
4. What are my child's rights and responsibilities?
5. What health & safety laws are in place to protect workers?
6. Are there any harmful chemicals that need to be used?
7. Who do I speak to if I have a question about the job or equipment being used?
8. What safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, mask, safety shoes) will be needed?
In addition, you should know there are a number of internet resources that can help. For more information and to be taken to these sites, click the links below. Stay aware, and stay safe!
4/19/2010Chemical products are all around us, in our workplaces, our homes and our communities. There are laws pertaining to chemical products that are in place to protect us from both health effects such as corrosivity, and from safety effects such as fires. No matter where you use chemicals, knowing their hazardous properties and how to use them safely is important.
In our workplace, chemicals are generally used either for curriculum or for custodial purposes. Curriculum chemicals are typically found in our science, technology and visual arts programs. PDSB has a list of approved science chemicals, as well as guidance information for safe use of chemicals in technology and the arts.
Custodial chemicals undergo a health and safety review as well as field testing before becoming approved to be used in schools. The Facilities Services department actively promotes the Eco Schools program which includes use of environmentally-friendly, non-toxic products.
Bringing in cleaning chemicals from home is strictly prohibited.
Workplace chemicals that have hazardous ingredients may be considered "controlled" and would fall under the Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS). WHMIS laws require labeling, material safety data sheets and training. For more information on WHMIS requirements, contact Health, Wellness and Safety.
Many chemical products are available in retail outlets such as your local hardware or grocery store. These products are regulated as Consumer Products. As such, there are certain requirements for labeling but no requirements for material safety data sheets or training. Despite this, consumer products can have health and safety hazards and it is important that they be handled safely. For more information, visit Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety website located at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/index-eng.php3/22/2010
Electrical Safety
Electricity is all around us: in our homes, our workplaces and our communities. We recognize the usefulness of electricity, do we recognize the hazards? We usually encounter an electrical hazard (such as a frayed or damaged cord) at the most inconvenient time possible: the moment at which we plug something in to use it. What you do next can mean life or death for you, someone you work with or someone you love. Do you proceed to use that cord knowing the risk of serious electrical shock, even death by electrocution? Or do you stop and find a safer alternative? Here are examples of electrical hazards you may encounter and the appropriate solution for those hazards:
Hazard: I need temporary power for a specfic task (e.g.: power drill or overhead projector).
Solution: Use one CSA or ULC approved extension cord. Be careful to avoid creating trip hazards. Use only one cord, long enough for the task.
Hazard: I need long-term power (e.g.: installing a computer at a desk).
Solution: Use one CSA or ULC approved power bar of adequate length. Extension cords are NOT intended for long-term use.
Hazard: My equipment cord has 3 prongs but the extension cord only has room for 2 prongs.
Solution: Discard the extension cord and replace with a CSA or ULC approved cord with room for 3 prongs. Using 2 prong extension cords is hazardous.
Hazard: My power cord is damaged (e.g.: frayed, missing ground pin, cracked insulation etc.).
Solution: Never used damaged power cords! Damaged AV equipment can be repaired by placing a Heat Web call to LTSS. Non-AV equipment such as custodial or technology equipment can be repaired by placing a Category 33 Work Order.
3/1/2010
Stretching is a powerful part of any exercise program. Stretching increases flexibility and improves range of motion of your joints. Stretching even improves circulation and helps relieve stress. Before stretching, warm up with 5 to 10 minutes of light activity. Better yet, stretch after you exercise — when your muscles are warm and more receptive to stretching. When you stretch, keep it gentle. Breathe freely as you hold each stretch. Don't bounce. Expect to feel tension while you're stretching. If you feel pain, you've gone too far.
When to Stretch
It’s best to stretch when the body is warm, so after your workout is the ideal time to get the most out of your flexibility session. When your body is warm the muscle fibres are elongated and fluid exudes from in between the fibres where it can then be transported away by the lymph and circulatory system, enhancing the removal of the waste products produced by exercise.
Instead of thinking of stretching as an add-on to your workout, try to think of it as preparation for your next workout session – increasing your range of movement, as well as ensuring that each muscle is elongated, allowing you to train harder and better.
There are many important reasons why you should stretch out after each workout including: counteracting the effects of repeated movement that can lead to injury, increasing the range of movement in the joints, and even reducing the formation of scar tissue if you are recovering from an injury.
* Information presented from the Mayo clinic and Health Mad
1/11/2010When it comes to buying an office chair, you will soon discover there are many different shapes and styles to select from. Here is a list of chair features that you should consider to ensure your chair is ergonomic:
CHOOSE a chair with:
√ adjustable height, seat, arm rest and back rest
√ a backrest which is shaped to support the lower back and does not give way
√ a seat height which does not put pressure on back of the thighs
√ a seat that curves downwards at the front edge to prevent pressure on the back of legs
√ arm rests which do not prevent the chair from being drawn up to the desk or interfere with natural movement
√ a non-slip breathable seat fabric
√ a swivel mechanism so that twisting can be avoided
√ a stable base
√ five castors for easy movement
* Portions of this broadcast printed from CCOHS – Office Ergonomics 5th Edition
12/7/2009
To maintain strong back muscles and reduce back strain and soreness, stretching and strengthening back muscles will help.
Tips for Safer Shovelling:
• If you are inactive and have a history of heart trouble, consult your doctor prior to performing the task of shovelling snow.
• Avoid caffeine or nicotine before beginning, as these stimulants may increase your heart rate and place extra stress on the heart.
• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is still an issue in cold winter months as it is in the summer, especially while performing physical activity.
• Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as needed.
• Warm up your muscles before shovelling, by walking for a few minutes or marching in place. Stretch the muscles in your arms and legs, because warm muscles will work more efficiently and are less prone to injury.
• Pick the right shovel for you. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body.
• Lift with your legs not your back. Bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible.
• Step in the direction that you are throwing snow and avoid twisting the back.
• Create some distance between the hands as this will give you more leverage when lifting snow.
• Pick-up smaller loads of snow. It's best to shovel by sections, especially with large snowfalls.
• Push the snow, avoid any lifting. Save your back and your energy by simply pushing the snow to the side instead of lifting the snow and throwing it off to the side.
• Listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain or observe heart attack warning signs (for example: chest, shoulder, neck or arm pain; dizziness; fainting; sweating; nausea; or shortness of breath). If you think you are having a heart attack, seek medical help immediately. 11/2/2009
Over sixty thousand workers get injured annually due to fall accidents in Canada. This number represents about fifteen percent of the "time-loss injuries" that are accepted by Workers' Compensation boards. 60% of falls happen on the same level resulting from slips and trips.
How to avoid injuries this winter:
Wear shoes or boots that will provide good traction on snow and ice: rubber and neoprene composite. Avoid plastic and leather soles, no matter how good you think they look!
Dress warmly. We tend to tense our muscles when we are cold and try to hurry, both of which can affect our balance. Wear appropriate gloves to keep your hands warm so you don’t need to put them in your coat pockets; your hands should be free to break your fall if you happen to slip.
Give yourself plenty of time. Take shorter strides with your feet pointed slightly outward. This will help keep your centre of balance under you and provide a stable base.
Be careful getting out of your vehicle. If possible, place both feet on the pavement before you get out of the vehicle. Avoid reaching beyond your center of balance to take hold of the door, this may cause a fall.
Don't take shortcuts. Always use sidewalks and cleared paths in parking lots. Avoid walking between parked cars. Be extra careful when stepping onto curbs or when changing to different levels, up or down.
Pay attention to the walking surface. It may become wetter or slicker ahead of you. Look down, but only with your eyes. Bowing your head, may send you forward.
Watch out for icy pavement. When walking after sunset or in shadowed areas, be alert for black ice. Once parking lots, sidewalks and steps have been cleared, a thin layer of water still remains and refreezes when the temperature drops.
Carry only what you need. Weighted or bulky packages also provide a risk in potentially slippery areas. | View in Web Browser | /_layouts/images/ichtmxls.gif | /_layouts/xlviewer.aspx?listguid={ListId}&itemid={ItemId}&DefaultItemOpen=1 | 0x0 | 0x1 | FileType | xlsx | 255 | | View in Web Browser | /_layouts/images/ichtmxls.gif | /_layouts/xlviewer.aspx?listguid={ListId}&itemid={ItemId}&DefaultItemOpen=1 | 0x0 | 0x1 | FileType | xlsb | 255 | | Snapshot in Excel | /_layouts/images/ewr134.gif | /_layouts/xlviewer.aspx?listguid={ListId}&itemid={ItemId}&Snapshot=1 | 0x0 | 0x1 | FileType | xlsx | 256 | | Snapshot in Excel | /_layouts/images/ewr134.gif | /_layouts/xlviewer.aspx?listguid={ListId}&itemid={ItemId}&Snapshot=1 | 0x0 | 0x1 | FileType | xlsb | 256 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|