Category: Toolbox Talks

Many workers think that the office environment is the safest workplace. But a safe office workplace requires hazard control, good housekeeping, and safe work practices. One way to promote office safety is to arrange your office to allow clear walkways…

  Routine work can dull alertness, and the caution that existed when the job was new and interesting can slowly fade.   In many jobs the same route is traveled daily over the same roads, or the same tasks are…

  What is a Powered Industrial Truck? A Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) is a mobile, power-driven vehicle used to carry, push, pull, lift or stack material. There are twelve (12) different types of PITs, and designated types of PITs can…

  Stepladders are commonly used in the construction or general industry, but they require careful use. They are not designed for any degree of side loading and are relatively easily overturned.   Avoid over-reaching. People have been killed getting down…

Historically, falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for about one-third of all fatalities in the industry. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there were 713 fatal falls to a lower level in 2017,…

A company was hired to install electrical conduit in a 12-foot trench. The trench box was on the flat bed of a trailer. The job only required a “quick” application of glue, push together and they would be finished so…

ELECTRICAL DANGERS Employees using electric tools must be aware of several dangers. Among the most serious hazards are electrical burns and shocks. Electrical shocks, which can lead to injuries such as heart failure and burns, are among the major hazards…

  As summer approaches it brings along the warm temperatures. Typically, in Western Washington, we stay relatively cool, being near the sound and ocean keeps the temperature moderate. In Eastern Washington the temperature can get quite warm and stay that…

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons. Risk factors include lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. Exposure…

In Washington, motor vehicle incidents are a common cause of workplace fatalities and hospitalizations. These incidents happen because of: Speeding Unsafe lane changes. Lack of knowledge about the vehicle. The use of handheld devices while driving. Poor weather conditions. Driving…