AlaCOMP provides news and OSHA Updates to all members. Each entry is packed with vital safety tips, updates to claims processes and information on the annual seminar devoted to safety and workers’ compensation subjects.
Safety Awareness: Accident Investigation
January 12, 2019
A comprehensive safety program requires an established, strong set of accident investigation procedures. Important components include the investigation of every incident and consistent reporting of all incidents by employees. Further, simple rules should be applied in every accident investigation: Apply an unbiased approach during the investigation. Interview each witness and injured employee privately. Obtain signed statements from all involved. Conduct a walk-through of the accident. Take…
MORERecap of 2018
January 05, 2019
Following the close of 2018, an annual review reveals many of the same incidents continue to occur resulting in accidents and injuries. As noted in previous years, slips and falls lead all other incidents in frequency and cost. Injuries in the workplace can be prevented with more attention placed on keeping the workplace clean and organized, along with following safety protocol. In 2019, the priority is to eliminate the risk factors causing these injuries. Contact the Loss Control consultants…
MOREFocus Points: Slip, Trip and Fall Hazards
July 30, 2018
At the midway point in the year, slip, trip and fall areas continue to be #1 and #2 respectively in the top 10 claims' list. These hazard areas affect both industry and non-industry areas and generate most documented claims throughout the year. Slips, trips and falls are caused by many factors. Clutter and poor housekeeping are a major contributing factor. Other factors include wet or slick conditions, hoses and extension cords left stretched across the floor and employees working on…
MOREHelpful Tips: Distracted Driving
July 15, 2018
Distracted driving remains a major daily issue across roads and highways. Statistics show distracted driving causes 25% of all motor vehicle fatalities. On a daily basis, there will be more than ten fatalities and 1,000 injuries from distracted driving. It is imperative that companies institute a cell phone and distracted driving policy into existing safety programs. Ensure employees understand the dangers of texting (and other distractions) while driving and remind them to watch for…
MOREMid-Year Review
July 01, 2018
Calendar year 2018 is half over. In the business world, the end of the second quarter serves as a great time to review the first half of the year. Explore things that did or did not work, look for areas of strength and weakness, then make proper modifications to finish out the last two quarters of the year strong. This mid-year review also applies to safety programs. Continuous improvement of safety programs should always be a focal point. Reviewing accidents and injuries on a regular basis…
MORESpring & Summer Focus Points
May 01, 2018
In Spring and Summer seasons, some of the areas to focus efforts on include examining potential outdoor hazards. Some of these include: Insect Bites and Bee Stings: If possible, avoid areas with wasp nests and yellow jacket burrows. Both can cause severe allergic reactions. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea and dizziness, hives, and swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, or tongue. Bites can also cause difficulty in breathing. If any of these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical help. Around 50…
MORELockout/Tagout: What to Know
April 25, 2018
Working with machines and energy sources can be dangerous and requires authorized employees to perform Lockout/Tagout procedures. The term Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) refers to safety procedures ensuring the proper shut-off of machines and energy sources. Further, LOTO ensures equipment remains powered off until the completion of the maintenance or service work. The following lists includes some common types of hazardous energy: Electrical Thermal Gravitational Chemical Stored Motion Hydraulic…
MOREHelpful Tips: Self-Performed Safety Inspections
April 15, 2018
Best practice for all companies includes performing and documenting regular safety inspections. These can be done on a pre-shift daily or weekly basis, depending on the scope of the inspection. Developing a self-inspection checklist or utilizing one of the safety inspection checklists found in the AlaCOMP online Safety Library assists with self-inspections. Follow the guideline to perform a safety walk-through and better document the inspection performance. The company should…
MORETop 5 Safety Issues Noted During Loss Control Inspections
April 01, 2018
Keeping the workplace safe and reducing workers compensation loss involves scheduling a visit from the AlaCOMP Loss Control department, which will cover several points. Reviewing company operations from a safety standpoint, evaluating potential hazards and making suggestions for safety program improvements are the focus. Continuous client loss control inspections reveal similar safety issues in need of attention. Listed below are the top 5 most common safety issues discovered during these…
MOREEstablishing an Effective Safety Program
March 15, 2018
In all segments of the industry, companies should create and document an effective safety program. A safety program identifies and reduces hazards faced by employees in the work environment. Some industries must implement safety programs to comply with federal or state government requirements. Written policies and procedures satisfy an imperative component of an effective safety program. Companies should publish a list of safety rules within the company handbook that is received by all…
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