The nature of work is changing at whirlwind speeds. According to a recent study commissioned by Regus, a provider of flexible workplace options, almost 50% of workers worldwide reported an increase in stress levels last year! This study also found that stressrelated health conditions account for 75% to 90% of all doctor visits, and that 30% to 50% of new disability benefit claims are attributed to poor mental health. Some statistics suggest that up to 60% to 70% of workplace accidents may be caused or influenced by stress. Continue Reading →

When is flu season? Flu season begins in October and runs through May, with peak flu activity in January and February. The best way to protect against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. The vaccine for the 2012-2013 season has arrived at many health providers, clinics, and other dispensing locations. Now is a good time to be vaccinated before the flu season gets started. Continue Reading →

Always take a few minutes to review the task at hand before starting any work. Consider how to complete the task safely by using the right Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), tools, and equipment for the job. Take the time to make a Safe Plan of Action (SPA) for every task. STOP is a good formula to follow for all your work, home, and recreational activities. Continue Reading →

On Friday August 31, Ohio joined the majority of other states to ban texting while driving. Distracted driving is considered to be any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from their primary task of driving. All distractions endanger the driver, passengers, other drivers, and bystander safety. Continue Reading →

What happens when you experience a minor cut or injury? Do you clean and treat the wound immediately, or go on with your task and worry about it later? Do you have a first aid kit nearby and do you know where one is kept? All good questions that we don’t ask until after a minor cut or injury occurs. Continue Reading →

The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) have a joint web site at www.ready.gov/severe-weather with information that will help save lives by educating the public on what to do before, during, and after severe weather strikes. Last year (2011) there were more than 1,000 fatalities and 8,000 injuries caused by severe weather. While we can’t control when or where severe weather will hit, we can prepare and arm ourselves with the knowledge of what to do before, during, and after a severe weather event. Continue Reading →