More than 70 million gallons of metal-working fluids (MWFs) - the most complex material to evaluate and control for employee exposure purposes - are produced annually in the U.S. Other generic classes of materials such as welding fumes, heated rubber and plastic, and some solvent-based paints also are complex. But MWFs hold the top spot, mostly because their composition is constantly changing.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) is proposing to change its name to the Occupational Health, Safety & Environment Association (OHSEA). Ballots were mailed last month to the group's 13,000 members. To adopt the new name, two-thirds of all voters must support it. The outcome of the vote should be known this month.
We asked a panel of experienced safety and health professionals for advice on dealing with the sensitive subject of employee health complaints. Sooner or later they surface in every workplace. Here's what the experts suggest to help you be prepared.
While often overlooked as a workplace hazard, heat stress represents a significant risk in industries where workers must engage in physical activity of any intensity.