Many drivers still fail to take advantage of belts, rationalizing that they’re a nuisance, uncomfortable or not necessary for the type of driving they do.

What seat belts mean to you

If you don’t use a seat belt, read the following comments and evaluate their possible value to you.

1. Seat belts help prevent the second collision — being thrown around inside the vehicle. Even sudden stops without a collision can severely jolt occupants if they are not restrained.
2. Your chance of survival in an accident is much greater if you stay inside the vehicle. Thousands of deaths and serious injuries caused by being hurled from the vehicle would not have happened had the victims protected themselves with belts.
3. The need to be belted in is actually greater on short trips. Most accidents occur close to home.
4. A firmly fastened belt is just as necessary traveling slow or fast. Many injury-producing accidents occur at impact speeds of 40 M.P.H. or less.
5. A seat belt can help keep you from being knocked unconscious — which multiplies many times over your chances of escaping should the vehicle catch on fire or go into water.
6. If you hit a bump, drop off a road edge, make a sudden maneuver or lose control of your vehicle, a buckled belt will keep you behind the wheel for faster and more effective recovery.

These are facts, not hearsay. Make use of seat belts a habit.

Final thought

Fasten your belt snugly EVERY time you get into a vehicle. Wear it low, so that the bottom edge of it is tight across the top of the thighs. Impact pressure should always be taken at the hip joints and dispersed over the pelvic area — never across the abdomen.

You may only need your seat belt once — but which time?

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC NOV 2018 11-389
171-1126 (10/14)

Safety issues are a constant concern for school officials. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has provided guidelines for school administrators to assist in evaluating compliance with federal requirements, such as those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This checklist provides school officials a means of identifying potential problem areas that may occur with the fire alarm system and evacuation plans. Any question answered “No” should be thoroughly investigated and corrective actions taken.

Remarks:

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC FEB 2019 14-71
171-0951 (01/14)

What is a scaffold?

A scaffold is defined as an elevated, temporary work platform. There are three basic types of scaffolds:

• Supported scaffolds, which consist of one or more platforms supported by rigid, load-bearing members, such as poles, legs, frames, outriggers etc.
• Suspended scaffolds, which are one or more platforms suspended by ropes or other non-rigid, overhead support.
• Other scaffolds, principally aerial lifts, personnel hoists, etc., which are sometimes thought of as vehicles or machinery, but can be regarded as another type of mobile scaffold.

Common hazards associated with all scaffolds

• Falls from elevation, due to lack of fall protection such as guardrails.
• Collapse of the scaffold, caused by poor ground support or overloading.
• Being struck by falling tools, work materials or debris.
• Electrocution, principally due to scaffolds being used near overhead power lines.

Requirements for designing and constructing scaffolds

• Scaffolds must be designed by a qualified person and be constructed and loaded in accordance with that design. OSHA defines a qualified person as one who:
  • Possesses a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing; or
  • Has extensive knowledge, training and experience; and therefore,
  • Can solve or resolve problems related to the work or the project.

Preplanning

When scaffolds will be used by workers it is important to evaluate the location where the scaffold will be used. Looking for hazards, evaluating ground conditions and determining what the working height will be can reduce the potential for problems.

• Determining the maximum intended load that will be placed on the scaffold will provide guidance to scaffold erectors in determining the spacing of scaffold components.
• Evaluating the supporting surface for soft ground, questionable support, underground voids and the structural capacity of covers will help identify where additional support may be necessary.
• Looking for any nearby electrical hazards such as power lines that may need to be de-energized or moved prior to erecting a scaffold will allow for time to abate those hazards.

Safety program development

Evaluation

When developing a scaffold safety program it is important to understand the types of scaffolds that will be used. Identifying the type of scaffold necessary for the job will help in determining what training will be necessary and allow for time to discuss any concerns with the manufacturer.

What type of scaffolds will be used?

• Prefabricated frame scaffolds are not complicated to erect, but training is still required.
• System scaffolds require more training and are more complicated to erect, especially if configurations will include angles to clear obstructions.
• Tube and clamp systems are very complicated and require specially trained workers.
• Aerial lifts will require workers to be trained on the specific type and model used.

Consider the type of work to be performed and total loading (weight) on scaffold.

• Light work such as cleaning, minor repair, general painting.
• Medium work such as maintenance, plumbing, electrical work.
• Heavy work where the scaffold will be loaded with heavy tools/equipment.

Consider the types of work areas where scaffolds will be used.

• Locations such as warehouses, gymnasiums and other areas with level floors.
• Construction areas where ground conditions will vary.
• Industrial locations where scaffold configurations may include angled components due to a variety of shaped vessels.
• Locations where vehicles may be present that could impact the scaffold and cause damage or collapse.

OSHA requirements

The requirements for scaffolding are found in 29 CFR 1926.450, Subpart L. Attempting to document ALL scaffolding requirements would be difficult as there are 26 different types of scaffolds contained in the OSHA standards. In general all scaffolds share these common requirements:

• All scaffolds must have a competent person on site for initial assessment, daily inspection and if any major changes occur when scaffolds are in use.
• All scaffolds must be used in strict accordance with OSHA standards and manufacturer’s specifications.
• Scaffolds shall be erected on sound, rigid footing, capable of carrying (4) four times the maximum intended load.
• Base plates are always required. When scaffolds are not erected on a concrete slab or similar solid surface, mud sills should be used in addition to base plates.
• Only competent persons shall supervise the erection, alteration, dismantling, or inspection of scaffolding.
• Training must be conducted by a competent person.
• Scaffold frames shall not be used for fall arrest anchorage unless engineered for that purpose.
• Safe and proper access is always required for workers. (i.e., ladders/stairways).
• Scaffolding must be inspected at least daily and prior to use.

Training

Employers are required by OSHA standards to have a person qualified in the subject matter (scaffolds) provide training to each employee who performs work while on a scaffold. The training must enable employees to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used and to understand the procedures to control or minimize those hazards.

Training programs

As stated, a person qualified in the subject matter must provide all training on scaffold use. This person must be familiar with the type(s) of scaffolds in use including the manufacturers’ requirements for erection, dismantlement and inspection. When designing training programs there are two main types of workers:

Erectors/dismantlers

Erectors and dismantlers are workers whose principal activity involves assembling and disassembling scaffolding before other work can commence, and after that work, or a portion of it, has been completed. Scaffold builder training must include:

• The nature of scaffold hazards
• The correct procedures for erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, inspecting and maintaining the type of scaffold being erected
• The design criteria, maximum intended load-carrying capacity and intended use of the scaffold
• Any other OSHA requirements based on the type of scaffold being erected

The training provided for erectors/dismantlers should be a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on activities. Depending upon the height and type of scaffold(s) used the total time could be between 4 – 40 hours. The proper use of personal fall protection equipment should also be a part of the instruction.

Scaffold users

Scaffold users are those whose work requires them, at least some of the time, to be supported by scaffolding to access the area of a structure where that work is performed. Scaffold users must understand:

• The nature of electrical hazards, fall hazards and falling object hazards in the work area
• The correct procedures for dealing with electrical hazards and for erecting, maintaining, and disassembling the fall protection systems and falling object protection systems being used
• The proper use of the scaffold, and the proper handling of materials on the scaffold
• The maximum intended load and the load- carrying capacity of the scaffolds in use
• Any other requirements that may apply to scaffold safety or OSHA scaffold standards.

The training provided to end users may be a combination of classroom with additional pre-work instruction provided by the competent person. Instructions on how to access scaffolds, maintain fall protection and identify when scaffold parts are damaged should be included.

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC DEC 2018-150
171-10009 (6/16)

Saunas provide a relaxing environment for your club members and guests, so long as they are properly installed, operated and maintained. Follow these guidelines to help reduce the chance of a sauna electric heater-related fire and contribute to the safety of your sauna facilities.

• Heater installation and any subsequent maintenance should be done by a licensed, qualified electrician, following manufacturer requirements. The unit must be grounded and proper clearances to combustible materials maintained. Electrical equipment used in wet areas such as saunas should be equipped with ground fault protection.
• Check the sauna at regular intervals, including opening and closing, for materials that may have been left on the heater.
• A steel, mesh guard should be in place on top of the unit. Replace immediately if missing or damaged. The sauna should not be used without this guard in place.
• Placement of towels or other combustibles over the heater should be prohibited using signs and instructions from your staff to members and guests.
• Heater rocks that surround the heating elements should be replaced at least annually. Rocks will crumble with repetitive heating and cooling, reducing airflow and increasing heater temperature.
• Sauna heating systems should be separated from all other areas by a one-hour fire rated barrier. The use of open flame heating devices inside saunas should be prohibited.
• Never install additional benches or shelving over the heater.
• Never install locking or latching devices on doors leading into saunas.
• Heaters need to be equipped with an automatic high temperature shutoff switch to prevent overheating  the unit. The switch should never be bypassed or removed.
• Check on sauna air inlets and outlets to verify they are clear and unblocked.
• If you have a sprinkler system in your facility, consider having a licensed sprinkler contractor extend the sprinkler system to include the sauna interior. Sprinkler head designs for normal sauna temperatures are available.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you. The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC DEC 2018 14-93
171-0952 (12/13)

Chemical exposures

• Is employee exposure to chemicals kept within acceptable levels?
• Are eyewash fountains and safety showers provided in areas where caustic corrosive chemicals are handled?
• Are all employees required to use personal protective clothing and equipment (gloves, eye protection, respirators) when handling chemicals?
• Are flammable or toxic chemicals kept in closed containers when not in use?
• Where corrosive liquids are frequently handled in open containers or drawn from storage vessels or pipelines, are adequate means provided to neutralize or dispose of spills or overflows (properly and safely)?
• Have standard operating procedures been established, and are they being followed when chemical spills are cleaned up?
• Are respirators stored in a convenient and clean location?
• Are emergency-use respirators adequate for the various conditions under which they may be used?
• Are employees prohibited from eating in areas where hazardous chemicals are present?
• Is personal protective equipment provided, used, and maintained whenever necessary?
• Are there written standard operating procedures for selecting and using respirators where needed?
• If you have a respirator protection program, are your employees instructed on the correct usage and limitations of the respirators?
• Are the respirators NIOSH-approved for particular applications?
• Are respirators inspected and cleaned, sanitized, and maintained regularly?
• Are you familiar with the threshold limit value (TLV) or permissible exposure limit (PEL) of airborne contaminants and physical agents used in your workplace?
• Have you considered having an industrial hygienist or environmental health specialist evaluate your work operations?

Cranes and hoists

• Are cranes visually inspected for defective components before the start of any work shift?
• Are all electrically-operated cranes effectively grounded?
• Is a crane preventive maintenance program established?
• Is the load chart clearly visible to the operator?
• Are all operators trained and provided the operator's manual for the particular crane being operated?
• Have operators of construction-industry cranes of 5-ton capacity or greater capacity qualified for and been issued a valid operator's card?
• Are operating controls clearly identified?
• Is a fire extinguisher provided at the operator's station?
• Is the rated capacity visibly marked on each crane?
• Is an audible warning device mounted on each crane?
• Is sufficient lighting provided for the operator to perform the work safely?
• Does each crane have a certificate indicating that required testing and examinations have been performed?
• Are crane inspection and maintenance records maintained and available for examination?

Electrical safety

• Are only qualified persons allowed to work on electrical equipment and are they familiar with OSHA electrical safety rules?
• Are lockout/tagout procedures required when electrical equipment is being serviced?
• Are portable hand-held electrical tools and equipment grounded or double-insulated?
• Are electrical appliances — such as refrigerators, coffee pots, vacuum cleaners, polishers, and vending machines — grounded?
• Do extension cords have a ground prong?
• Are ground-fault circuit interrupters, which are not a part of the permanent wiring of the building, installed on 125-volt, single phase, 15-, 20-, and 30-ampere receptacles?
• If not, do you have an assured equipment-grounding program or use portable GFCI for temporary work?
• Do you repair or replace damaged wiring or frayed cords promptly?
• Do flexible cords or cables have strain relief at plug ends and is the cord jacket securely held in place?
• If you work in damp or wet areas, are your electrical tools and equipment approved for that kind of work?
• Are metal ladders prohibited from use in areas where there could be exposure to energized parts of equipment, fixtures, or circuit conductors?
• Are all disconnecting switches labeled to indicate their use or the equipment they serve?
• Are energized parts of electrical equipment operating at 50 volts or more enclosed in approved cabinets?
• Is there sufficient access and working space around all electrical equipment?
• Are all unused openings in breaker boxes appropriately plugged or covered?
• Is the use of each circuit breaker properly labeled?
• Do switches, receptacles, and junction boxes have tight-fitting covers or face plates?
• Are employees forbidden from working within 10 feet of high-voltage (over 600 volts) lines?

Emergency action plan

• Have you developed an emergency action plan?
• Have emergency-escape procedures and routes been developed and communicated to all employees?
• Do employees who must complete critical plant operations before evacuating know the proper procedures?
• Is the employee alarm system emergency warning recognizable and perceptible above ambient conditions?
• Are alarm systems properly maintained and tested regularly?
• Is the emergency action plan reviewed and revised periodically?
• Do employees know their responsibilities for the following:
  • Reporting emergencies?
  • Responding to emergency warnings?
  • Performing rescue and medical duties?

Exit doors

• Are doors required to serve as exits designed and constructed so that the way of exit travel is obvious and direct?
• Are windows that could be mistaken for exit doors made inaccessible by barriers or railing?
• Are exit doors able to open from the direction of exit travel without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort?
• Is a revolving, sliding, or overhead door prohibited from serving as a required exit door?
• When panic hardware is installed on a required exit door, will it allow the door to open by applying a force of 15 pounds or less in the direction of the exit traffic?
• Are doors on cold-storage rooms provided with inside release mechanisms that release the latches and open the doors even if they are padlocked or otherwise locked on the outside?
• Where exit doors open directly onto a street, alley, or other area where vehicles may be operated, are adequate barriers and warnings provided to prevent employees from stepping directly into traffic?
• Do doors that swing both directions have viewing panels in each door if they are frequently used?

Ladders: portable

• Are all ladders in good condition, joints between steps and side rails tight, all hardware and fittings securely attached, and moveable parts operating freely without binding or undue play?
• Are there non-slip safety feet on all ladders except step ladders?
• Are ladder rungs and steps free of grease and oil?
• Are employees prohibited from placing a ladder in front of doors opening toward the ladder except when the door is blocked open, locked, or guarded?
• Are employees prohibited from placing ladders on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases?
• Are employees instructed to face the ladder when ascending and descending?
• Are employees prohibited from using ladders that are broken, missing steps, rungs, cleats, broken side rails, or other faulty parts?
• Are employees instructed not to use the top step of ordinary stepladders as a step?
• When portable rung ladders are used to gain access to elevated platforms, roofs, and the like, does the ladder always extend at least three feet above the elevated surface?
• Do you require the users of portable rung or cleat-type ladders to place the base so that slipping will not occur or to lash or otherwise hold the ladder in place?
• Do portable metal ladders have legible signs reading "CAUTION — Do Not Use Around Electrical Equipment" or equivalent wording?
• Are the rungs of ladders uniformly spaced at 12 inches, center to center?

Lockout/tagout

• Have you established a written program consisting of energy control procedures, training, and periodic inspections for servicing and maintaining machinery or equipment where the release of stored energy or unexpected energizing could cause injury to an employee?
• Do your procedures clearly outline the scope, purpose, authorization, rules and techniques to be used in controlling hazardous energy?
• Does your lockout/tagout program include a means to enforce compliance?
• Have your employees who are authorized to use lockout/tagout been trained on the procedures?
• Do you retrain your employees on lockout/ tagout when their job assignments change, machinery or processes change and present a new hazard, or procedures change?
• Is all machinery or equipment, where unexpected energizing or release of stored energy could cause injury to an employee, locked out or tagged out during servicing or maintenance?
• Are employees required to remove or bypass a guard or safety device during servicing and maintenance of any equipment or machinery?
• Are employees required to place any part of their body into an area on a machine or piece of equipment where work is actually performed upon the material being processed (point of operation) or where an associated danger zone exists during a machine operating cycle?
• When doing service or maintenance work on cord and plug connected machinery or equipment is the plug under the exclusive control of the employee performing the work?
• Have you identified procedures for the following?
  • Affixing lockout/tagout devices to energy isolating devices to disable machinery or equipment and prevent unexpected energizing?
  • Shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing machinery and equipment?
  • Placing, removing, and transferring of lockout/tagout devices?
  • Determining the effectiveness of the lockout/tagout devices?
• Do you instruct your employees to lock equipment and machinery out at the main power disconnects?
• Does the lockout/tagout procedure require that stored (potential) energy be released or blocked before equipment is locked-out for repairs?
• Do your procedures identify how affected employees will be notified that machinery or equipment is being locked out or that lock-out devices are being removed?
• Have you identified procedures to be used for removing a lockout/tagout device when the employee who placed it is not available?
• Are appropriate employees provided with individually keyed personal safety locks that identify the user?
• Are your lockout and tagout devices standardized by color, shape, or size?
• Are employees required to maintain exclusive control of their keys while they have safety locks in use?
• Do you require employees to check the safety of the lockout by attempting to start up after making sure no one is exposed?
• When the power-disconnecting means does not also disconnect the electrical control circuit:
  • Are appropriate electrical enclosures identified?
  • Are means provided to ensure the control circuit can also be disconnected and locked out?
• Do you have an authorized person perform a periodic inspection of your energy control procedures at least annually?
• Do you certify that the periodic inspections have been conducted?

Machine guarding

• Is there an employee training program for safe methods of machine operation?
• Is there adequate supervision to ensure that employees follow safe machine operating procedures?
• Is there a regular program of safety inspection for machinery and equipment?
• Is all machinery and equipment clean and properly maintained?
• Is sufficient clearance provided around and between machines to allow for safe operation, setup, servicing, material handling, and waste removal?
• Is equipment and machinery securely placed and anchored when necessary to prevent tipping or other movement that could result in personal injury?
• Is there a power shutoff switch within reach of the operator's position at each machine?
• Are the noncurrent-carrying metal parts of electrically-operated machines bonded and grounded?
• Are foot-operated switches guarded or arranged to prevent accidental actuation by personnel or falling objects?
• Are manually operated valves and switches that control the operation of equipment and machines clearly identified and readily accessible?
• Are all emergency stop buttons colored red?
• Are all pulleys and belts (within seven feet of the floor or working level) properly guarded?
• Are all moving chains and gears properly guarded?
• Are methods provided to protect the operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards created at the point of operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, flying chips, and sparks?
• Are machinery guards secured and arranged so they do not present a hazard in their use?
• If special hand tools are used for placing and removing material, do they protect the operator's hands?
• Are revolving drums, barrels, and containers that are required to be guarded by an enclosure that is interlocked with the drive mechanism so that revolution cannot occur, so guarded?
• Do arbors and mandrels have firm and secure bearings, and are they free from play?
• Are provisions made to prevent machines from automatically starting when power is restored following a power failure or shut-down?
• Are machines constructed to be free from excessive vibration when the largest size tool is mounted and run at full speed?
• If machinery is cleaned with compressed air, is air pressure controlled and personal protective equipment or other safeguards used to protect operators and other workers from eye and body injury?
• Are fan blades protected with a guard having openings no larger than 1⁄2 inch when operating within seven feet of the floor?
• Do saws used for ripping have anti-kickback devices and spreaders?
• Are radial arm saws guarded and so arranged that the cutting head will gently return to the back of the table when released?

Material handling

• Are materials stored so that they prevent sprains or strains when employees retrieve them?
• Is there a safe clearance for moving equipment through aisles and doorways?
• Are aisles permanently marked and kept clear to allow safe passage?
• Are motorized vehicles and mechanized equipment inspected daily or before use?
• Are vehicles shut off and brakes set before loading and unloading?
• Are containers of combustibles or flammables properly stacked and stabilized when they are being moved?
• Are trucks and trailers secured from movement during loading and unloading?
• Are dock boards (dock plates) used during loading and unloading operations?
• Are dock plates and loading ramps adequately constructed and maintained to support imposed loads?
• Are hand trucks maintained in safe operating condition?
• Are chutes equipped with side boards of sufficient height to prevent materials from falling off?
• Are chutes and gravity-roller sections firmly placed or secured to prevent displacement?
• At the delivery end of rollers or chutes, are provisions made to brake the movement of materials?
• Are materials handled at a uniform level to prevent lifting or twisting injuries?
• Are material-handling aids used to lift or transfer heavy or awkward objects?
• Are pallets usually inspected before loading or moving them?
• Do you use hooks with safety latches or other devices when hoisting materials, so that slings or load attachments cannot accidentally slip off the hoist hooks?
• Are securing chains, ropes, chokers, or slings adequate for the job?
• When equipment or materials are being hoisted, do you ensure that no one will be passing under the suspended loads?

Hand tools and equipment

• Are all company- and employee-owned tools and equipment in good working condition?
• Are hand tools such as chisels or punches that develop mushroomed heads reconditioned or replaced as necessary?
• Are broken or fractured handles on hammers, axes, or similar equipment replaced promptly?
• Are appropriate handles used on files and similar tools?
• Do employees use appropriate safety glasses, face shields, and similar equipment when using hand tools or equipment that might produce flying materials or be subject to breakage?
• Are jacks checked periodically to ensure they are in good operating condition?
• Are tool handles wedged tightly in the heads of all tools?
• Are tool-cutting edges kept sharp?
• Do employees use eye and face protection when they drive hardened or tempered tools, bits, or nails?

Noise: hearing conservation

• Are there areas in your workplace where continuous noise levels exceed 85 dBA?
• Are noise levels measured using a sound-level meter or an octave band analyzer, and are you keeping records of these levels?
• Have you tried isolating noisy machinery from the rest of your operation?
• Have engineering controls been used to reduce excessive noise?
• Where engineering controls are not feasible, are administrative controls used to minimize employee exposure to noise?
• Is there a preventive health program that educates employees about safe levels of noise and exposure, effects of noise on their health, and use of personal protection?
• Are employees who are exposed to continuous noise above 85 dBA retrained annually?
• Have you identified and posted work areas in which noise levels make voice communication difficult?
• Does every employee working in areas where noise levels exceed 90 dBA use approved hearing protection equipment (noise attenuating devices)?
• Are employees properly fitted and instructed in the proper use and care of hearing protection?
• Are employees who are exposed to continuous noise above 85 dBA given periodic audiometric testing to ensure that you have an effective hearing-protection system?

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Have you assessed workplace hazards that might require PPE and reviewed related injuries?
• Has the assessment been documented?
• Does the documentation identify the workplace evaluated?
• Has training been provided to each employee who is required to wear PPE?
• Has the training been documented?
• Are protective goggles or face shields provided to employees and worn when there may be danger of flying material or caustic or corrosive materials?
• Are ANSI-approved safety glasses worn at all times in areas where there is risk of eye injury?
• Are protective gloves, aprons, or shields provided to employees for protection against cuts, corrosive liquids, and chemicals?
• Are hardhats provided and worn where there is a danger of falling objects?
• Are hardhats inspected periodically for damage to the shell and the suspension system?
• Do employees exposed to vehicular traffic wear high visibility garments that make them stand out from their surroundings?
• Do workers wear reflective garments at night?
• Are appropriate respirators provided for regular or emergency use where they are necessary?
• Is there a written respirator program?
• Are the respirators inspected before and after each use?
• Is a written record kept of all inspection dates and findings?
• Have all employees been trained in work procedures, and proper use and maintenance of protective clothing and equipment for cleaning up spilled toxic or other hazardous materials or liquids?
• Is a spill kit available for employees to clean up spilled toxic or hazardous materials?
• Are employees required to wear safety shoes when they are exposed to conditions that could cause foot injuries?
• Is all protective equipment sanitary and ready to use?
• Is there an eyewash facility and a quick-drench shower in each work area where employees are exposed to caustic or corrosive materials?
• Do employees have lunch areas in areas where there is no exposure to toxic materials?
• Is protection from occupational noise provided when sound levels exceed those of the OSHA hearing conservation standard— 1910.95?

Tools and equipment: portable power-operated

• Do grinders, saws, and similar equipment have appropriate safety guards?
• Are power tools used with the shield or guard that the manufacturer recommends?
• Are portable circular saws equipped with guards above and below the base shoe?
• Are circular saw guards checked to ensure guarding of the lower blade portion?
• Are rotating or moving parts of equipment guarded to prevent physical contact?
• Are all cord-connected, electrically-operated tools and equipment either grounded or of the approved double-insulated type?
• Are effective guards in place over belts, pulleys, chains, and sprockets on equipment such as concrete mixers, air compressors, and the like?
• Are portable fans provided with full guards having openings of 1⁄2 inch or less?
• Is hoisting equipment available and used for lifting heavy objects, and are hoist ratings and characteristics appropriate for the task?
• Are ground-fault circuit interrupters (on all temporary electrical 15-, 20-, and 30-ampere circuits) used during periods of construction?

Or

• Is there an assured equipment-grounding conductor program in place during periods of construction?
• Are pneumatic and hydraulic hoses on power-operated tools checked regularly for deterioration or damage?

Walkways

• Are aisles and passageways kept clear and at least 22 inches wide?
• Are aisles and walkways appropriately marked?
• Are wet surfaces covered with non-slip materials?
• Are openings or holes in the floors or other walking surfaces repaired or otherwise made safe?
• Is there a safe clearance for walking in aisles in which vehicles operate?
• Are materials and equipment stored so sharp objects do not obstruct the walkway?
• Are changes of direction or elevation easily identified?
• Do aisles or walkways near moving or operating machinery, welding, and similar operations keep employees away from hazards?
• Are standard guardrails provided wherever aisle or walkway surfaces are elevated more than four feet above floor or ground?
• Are bridges provided over conveyors and similar hazards?

Work environment: general

• Are all work areas clean and orderly?
• Are walking surfaces dry or slip-resistant?
• Are spilled materials or liquids cleaned up immediately?
• Is combustible scrap, debris, and waste safely contained and removed from the site promptly?
• Are covered metal waste cans used for oily and paint-soaked waste?
• Is the appropriate number of toilets and washing facilities provided?
• Are toilets and washing facilities sanitary?
• Are work areas adequately lighted?

This is not an exhaustive list of all potential hazards in the workplace. Your facility may have additional exposures, state or local standards or company requirements that differ from this list. Workplace inspections need to be conducted by a person who is familiar with safety and health requirements and the exposures found at your facility.

Reference: Oregon OSHA

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you. The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC FEB 2019 12‐226
171-0953 (02/14)

Winter is here…and with it comes the hazardous driving conditions associated with cold weather, sleet, snow and icy roads.

In addition to the obvious dangers of driving on snow and ice, winter driving makes it more difficult to see danger before you can avoid it. Early darkness hides danger during the crowded rush hours. Bad weather blinds you with sleet, fog or snow. Roads with icy ruts, potholes, and snow piles at corners are distracting traps. Headlight glare is worse through the glint of a spattered windshield, and slush covered headlights decrease your ability to see.

Safe winter driving requires certain adjustments of our normal driving habits and the addition of special skills. Extra seconds taken beforehand may well mean extra seconds gained in stopping or maneuvering time.

Things you can do to prevent accidents

Before getting on the road

Prepare for driving — In addition to normal maintenance, check and make sure that your tires, battery, exhaust system, wiper blades (replace worn windshield wiper blades to ensure efficient removal of road salt film), brakes and steering are in top condition.

Brush off — Don't be a peephole driver. Brush snow and ice completely off front, back and side glass. Use the scraper end of the brush to clear off ice and crusty snow. Brush off the hood and top too, so snow won't keep blowing back on the windshield and rear window. See that all headlights are cleaned off as well. It's not enough that you see — others must be able to see you.

Warm up your vehicle — Have you ever started out on a winter day, turned on the heater when the motor is warm after a mile or so and had the glass instantly fog on the inside so you can't see? This can be terrifying in heavy traffic. Start your vehicle five to ten minutes before you plan to drive it (racing the engine does not help to warm up the vehicle and may damage the brittle, unlubricated engine parts). Turn on your defroster immediately. This will warm the windshield gradually and reduce the danger of sudden fogging of the glass. Be sure the inside air is warm enough to prevent condensation forming on the glass.

Wash off — In freezing weather, use a strong windshield washer solution. A weak solution can freeze on the windshield and will instantly obstruct your vision.

On the road

Light up — Be seen. Turn on your low beams at dusk, in rain or snow, or in gloomy weather. Never drive with only parking lights. Some state laws prohibit driving with parking lights. All your lights should be working.

Starting on ice and snow — Use a steady, light touch on the gas pedal. If your wheels should start to spin, ease off on the gas. When stuck on ice, use sand or a metal traction mat and that same "light touch" on the gas pedal.

Steering on slippery pavement — Be ready to adjust your speed and give attention to adverse conditions. Keep both hands on the wheel and make your turns as smooth and gradual as possible. Remember, you can't maneuver on snow and ice as you can on dry pavement. Under these conditions it's best to slow down, increase your following distance, and avoid lane changing.

Stopping on ice and snow — Pump your brakes, alternating slowing and rolling, for the most efficient braking on slick surfaces. NEVER LOCK THE WHEELS. Once the front wheels are locked you lose control of your vehicle and you may go into a skid. You can't steer if the front wheels are not rolling. As defensive drivers, slow down and brake before approaching an intersection. Any location that requires the stopping and starting of vehicles is likely to be very icy.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you. The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC FEB 2019 11-389
171-1127 (1/19)

If your company operates motor vehicles for business purposes, you should have established policies that govern the operation and use of your fleet of vehicles. Employees should be made aware of your safety standards while on company time. These standards are derived from written safety policies and procedures.

Safety policies

Your safety policy should have the following elements:

• Outline safe vehicle operation standards
• Address both employee and management responsibilities
• Policy should be reviewed with all employees
• Policy acknowledgement should be signed off and kept in the employee file
• Clear accountability standards should be spelled out for violating the safety standards
• Driver selection/qualification standards should be stated
• Accident review policy clearly stated
• Training standards outlined

Sample policy statement

“Vehicle accidents can cause serious injury and undue hardships on you and your family. It is the policy of (your company name) to achieve the greatest practical freedom from accidents and to provide every company driver with safe and healthful working conditions. We have begun a fleet safety program to reduce and prevent vehicular accidents. We will, as always, comply with all applicable regulations and expect all drivers to drive safely and to obey traffic laws. Safety is a priority. Your cooperation and help are needed to make our program a success.”

Please see our Hanover Risk Solutions resource found here: Sample safety program: Non-regulated fleets | The Hanover Insurance Group

A good safety policy should address topics that reflect needs. Specific topics could include but not be limited to the following:

• Driving―Employees must follow all written safety programs set forth by your company. All local, state, federal law and regulations must also be adhered to.
• Seatbelts―All occupants of the vehicle must wear a seatbelt while occupying the company-owned vehicle.
• Cellular devices―Using a cell phone and other devices for communication should be prohibited while the vehicle is in drive. Texting and driving should be banned by your company. Communicating with an escort vehicle or in an emergency would be possible exemptions.
• Distractions―Operators must take all precautions to eliminate distractions while driving. Examples of distractions that can be eliminated with pre-planning would be entering information into your GPS, adjusting the radio, looking at papers, etc.
• Substance abuse―Consuming alcohol and any other substance that would alter or inhibit their reaction time while driving, even if prescribed, should be prohibited while operating a vehicle.

Driver selection/qualification

The selection and qualification of drivers is an integral part of a good fleet safety policy. Employees that have clean driving records and companies that require clear Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) standards in general have fewer motor vehicle collisions.  Please find Hanover Risk Solutions other related articles on Driver Qualification Files for Regulated and Non-Regulated Fleets and Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) for clarification on best practices for screening new and existing drivers. 

The evaluation policy should indicate your company will review a driver’s past driving performance annually, to :

• Review their MVR and pre-hire information
• Ensure that they have a valid license

The qualification policy should indicate standards that your company and employees will be held to, including state regulations that must be met and as applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.  Your policies should consider if your drivers will be meeting commercial interstate requirements or foreign commerce in a vehicle meeting any of the following criteria:

• Gross motor vehicle weight of 10,001 pounds or more
• Designed to transport 16 passengers or more
• Transporting hazardous materials that fall under needing a placard under the DOT standards
• Drivers operating a vehicle with a gross motor vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more

Drivers meeting the above criteria need to have Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and have a DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Program.

Accident investigations and collision reporting

Policies should include accident reporting and recordkeeping requirements to ensure management and employees understand what is required in the event of an accident and the steps that we will be taken post-accident.  

An investigation policy will aid your company in recognizing if you need to take any of the following steps:

• Alter driving routes
• Improve inspection practices
• Improve maintenance activities
• Improve driver training annually and at hire
• Remedial training post-accident

Recordkeeping post-accident:

1. Documentation of investigation determinations
2. Actions taken immediately following the accident
3. Management actions taken (drug and alcohol testing and results)
4. Accident reporting trend analysis while identifying subsequent training needs

All accidents should result in the completion of a formal accident report with the collision reviewed for preventability.  The report should be clear and concise, defining who, what, where, when, why, and how.  Please see our Hanover Risk Solutions document on determining preventability post-accident.  Determining the preventability of motor vehicle crashes 

Where feasible, a crash review board (CRB) should be formed. The CRB is a peer group panel consisting of management representatives and drivers. The purpose of the CRB is to evaluate crashes with the purpose of improving the safety of operations. The number of representatives on the board will depend on the size of your business but should always be an odd number to avoid tie votes. Members can include department representatives from management, dispatch, maintenance, drivers, and safety.

The CRB should convene as soon as possible after the facts of the incident have been verified. The CRB’s decision should provide a clear explanation of findings and what can be done to improve the operation (i.e., if the crash was preventable by the driver, if the driver needs training, if a change in the way vehicles are equipped is necessary, or if maintenance procedures need to be modified).

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("The Hanover") specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC 2022-323

Confined spaces are not always recognized, nor are the related hazards easily identified and addressed. Confined spaces can be particularly dangerous if proper precautions are not followed. Employers can help safeguard their workers by adequately preparing and training workers on the issues and hazards inherent with confined space operations. The following actions should be addressed by management:

• Know the OSHA requirements for work in confined spaces.
• Conduct a job hazard assessment that identifies the types of confined spaces for each project and determines if the confined spaces are "permit-required." Permit-required confined spaces can include:
  • Excavations and trenches
  • Manholes and condenser pits
  • Pipe assemblies
  • Ventilation ducts
  • Tanks and containment cavities
  • Electrical transformers
  • Sumps and heat sinks
  • Underground vaults
• Identify the hazards (inherent and induced) associated with each confined space. Such hazards include:
  • Confined spaces within a confined space — one space entering another space
  • Communication and lighting problems
  • Entry and exit
  • Thermal effects
  • Oxygen-deficient atmospheres
  • Explosive or toxic gases, vapors or fumes
  • Biological hazards
  • Falling materials
  • Noise
• Identify required personal protection equipment (PPE) and provide training in their use.
• Conduct frequent refresher training on safety procedures.
• Train and appoint entrants, attendants and rescue personnel.
• Establish general and specific emergency procedures and plans for each project activity.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you. The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC NOV 2018 LC 12-294
171-0938 (2/14)

Because a significant amount of money may be on hand at any given time, churches face the risk of theft, not only from outside the church, but also from members within. Below are guidelines intended to help protect your church from these unfortunate circumstances.

• It is preferred that no cash be stored in the church.
• No individual should be required or allowed to handle the congregation’s income alone at any time.
• It is preferable for several people to be involved on a rotating basis in handling income.
• All income transactions (receipts and disbursements) should be properly recorded and verifiable.
• It is understood that the recording of income and gifts from individuals of the congregation is a confidential matter and such records are only available to the head of the church, financial secretary, and the stewardship committee when required.
• It is suggested that the head of the church should not serve in the position of treasurer and he/she should not have check-signing authority over any church account.
• Immediately following the service, two persons should carry the contents of the offering plates to a room for counting or placement in an adequate safe for counting the following day. Church funds and offerings should never be taken to a private home for counting.
• Envelopes should be immediately opened by at least two persons. Envelopes should be marked as to intent and purpose if not intended as undesignated offerings. Never leave the offerings with only one individual.
• After donations have been received and counted (by at least two persons) a deposit slip should be prepared and at least two persons should bring the deposit directly to the bank to be deposited in the night depository. Unless your church has a secure safe, leaving money overnight on church premises is too risky.
• After the deposit is made, a copy of the deposit slip and the summary report should be given to the treasurer and to the financial secretary.
• When deposits are entered in the church financial records, the treasurer should file the bank deposit slips chronologically along with the monthly bank statement. Notification of all donations received by the church should be given to the treasurer. (Someone other than the treasurer should receive, count and deposit the donations made to the church.)
• Funds collected from other activities (fund-raisers, special events, etc.) should be directed to those responsible for recording and making bank deposits of these funds. A copy of the deposit slip and summary report should be given to the treasurer and financial secretary.
• Members should be encouraged to make their offerings by check, not cash. Care must be taken to ensure members receive proper credit for their donated funds.
• A complete church financial record system should be used that reflects the receipts and disbursements of the church’s income. Federal recordkeeping requirements require an accounting of all the funds collected church-wide. There are many excellent and affordable computer software programs available to make the treasurer’s record-keeping requirement easier.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC MAR 2019 14-43
171-0874 (10/13)

Streaky windshields, night glare and pounding rain can considerably reduce a driver's ability to see. But that isn't the only challenge to be faced when driving in rainy weather. Wet roads may double the required stopping distance. During dry periods, a layer of residue builds up on the highway surface, and when it rains, the water floats it loose, forming a slick film on the road. Wet pavement, covered with road film or spotted with oil, grease and dirt, makes quick stops extremely difficult.

Perhaps the most serious factor affecting the ability to stop is tire hydroplaning.

Why hydroplaning occurs

As your vehicle rolls along on wet pavement a layer of water builds up ahead of the front tires. When the tire treads can no longer disperse this water, the wheels are lifted up in much the same way water lifts a skier.

The danger of hydroplaning is always present on wet or slushy roads. You can drive along for miles on the verge of a skid without being aware of it.

Hydroplaning occurs at virtually all speed ranges depending on conditions. As you increase the speed of your vehicle, the chances of hydroplaning become greater.

Below are some suggestions for driving safely in rainy weather.

• Slow down. Reduce your speed on wet roads. Beware of tire hydroplaning on high-speed expressways. You may lose ability to steer as well as your ability to brake. It can take a heavy rain a half-hour to wash away the oil slick and a lighter rain can take even longer.
• Allow extra distance for stopping. It takes your vehicle longer to stop when road surface conditions are less than optimal.
• Drive in the tracks of the vehicle in front of you. This can reduce the risk of hydroplaning due to contaminant dispersion.
• Check your wipers. Rubber wiper blades deteriorate when exposed to sun or temperature extremes. Six months is the average blade's effective life. If your blades won't wipe the windshield clean, have them replaced.
• Replace badly worn tires. Worn tires can increase hydroplaning potential, reduce traction control and prevent your vehicle from getting the best grip on the road surface.
• Drive with the tires inflated to the manufacturer's specifications. Tires perform best when properly inflated.
• Turn your lights on. With good wipers and defrosters you may see others, but can they see you? Use your low beams so you can be seen by pedestrians and other vehicles. Never drive with only your parking lights on.
• Watch surface conditions. Even though the rain has stopped, the streets may remain slippery. Traffic statistics indicate that high accident rates often continue for three to four hours after the rain stops.
• Beware of deep puddles. Check your braking ability immediately after driving through deep water. Some wet brakes will dry by repeatedly pumping the pedal or dragging your brakes for a moment or two when it is safe to do so.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you. The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC DEC 2018 LC 11-389
171-1128 (10/14)