Category: Toolbox Talks

Electricity creates a significant hazard in the workplace. Most injuries and fatalities result from: Electric shock Electrocution Burns Arc blasts Fires Explosions. Flammable vapors or gases and combustible dust or fibers may be present in some locations on a construction…

There are many different ways caught-in and caught-between accidents can occur, but the most common involve: • Trenching • Unguarded machinery • Equipment. Trenching: One of the biggest hazards is being caught in a trench cave-in, which could crush or…

Virtually all attics and crawlspaces are confined spaces. Workers who enter them must follow some of the requirements in WAC 296-809. Fewer requirements apply to attics and crawlspaces than to tanks, manholes, silos, because attics and crawlspaces rarely have significant…

Failing to address workplace chemicals in their business safety plan was the third most cited infraction in 2021 by L&I’s DOSH. Their citations don’t involve window cleaners, dish soaps, or other common cleaners. The concerning chemicals in the workplace are…

Lighting plays an essential role in proactive defense against accidents and injuries in the workplace. When lighting conditions are optimal, it can increase productivity while improving the quality of work. Optimal lighting provides workers with an environment where they can…

Safety harnesses are a crucial part of equipment. Harnesses keep workers safe from fall-related injuries, which are the number one cause of jobsite accidents. Keeping your equipment inspected and in working order is the single most important factor for safety.…

Pushing and pulling are everyday work activities in many work environments. You may be required to push and pull large or small items, levers, cables, boxes, carts, and more. Using material handling devices like carts, dollies, or hand trucks rather…

Anyone who operates, cleans, services, adjusts, and repairs machinery or equipment should be aware of the hazards associated with that machinery. Authorized employees are qualified and trained to clean, repair service, adjust, or unjam energized equipment. Affected employees are those employees who work…

In the blink of an eye, an incident can injure or even blind a worker who is not wearing proper protective eyewear. The type of eye protection—safety glasses, goggles, face shields, or helmets—must meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)…

Concrete isn’t just a mixture of cement and water. It contains some dangerous components. Alkaline compounds such as lime can be corrosive to the skin. Chromium causes allergic reactions. Silica, the lung-damaging substance that is so dangerous a tighter standard…