The Leader Spring 2017 - Safety & Health Training

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2, SPRING 2017FeaturedProducts pg. 30 RETAINREINSTTERADAOIF N





LTHEEADER CONTENTSVOL 4. ISSUE 2 SPRING 2017cover8 Retain Instead of RetrainCan you call it safety “training” whenthe information provided is not beingretained? The definition of training isthe act of teaching a particular skill ortype of behavior, and for those whotend to sleep or zone out during thepresentation, the chances of themrecalling what was covered duringthe session is low. Even for those thatdo pay attention during the training,the Ebbinghaus’ Forgetting Curvedemonstrates how information is lost overtime unless something is done to retain it.features 12 Training in Safety 14 Overexposed and Health and Underrated: The Electrical Safety Aside from the obvious regulatory Paradox Facing Today’s obligations to train employees on Workers and How to health and safety matters, what do Succeed Using Service most companies hope to achieve and Care Standards through training efforts? If you ask many employers they will tell you their primary It may seem obvious, but it is worth goal is to raise employees’ awareness stating, that nearly every single aspect of concerning health and safety issues our lives relies on energy. Electricity is one through training. However, what seems of the most dominant forms of energy, to be elusive to most employers is that and when properly harnessed, powers effective training should also achieve the modern industrial age and enables positive behavioral change. In our us to function efficiently both at work and opinion, effective training should always home. However, when neglected or not result in a change to positive behavior. respected, electricity can cause serious personal injury and death—especially when your job requires constant exposure to its many hazards.4 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

features continued www.vpppa.org20 Microlearning 24 Regulating VPPPA National Board of Directors is Reducing Hand Protection:Accidents and Saving Collaboration is the Key ChairpersonOrganizations Millions: to Improvement Mike Guillory, SGE, The Brock GroupWhy Are You Waiting? When you’re in the business of hand Vice ChairpersonDoes this sound familiar? An protection, there are data points that Rob Henson, LyondellBasellorganization’s “safety numbers” are keep you awake at night. For example,flat and you have tried everything according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Treasurerto gain more traction in developing Statistics, 70 percent of workers who Chris Adolfson, Idaho National Laboratoryand maintaining the safety culture. suffered hand injuries were not wearingAlthough the organization has better gloves when they suffered the injury. Secretarythan average numbers for the industry, That’s frustrating. The other 30 percent Terry Schulte, NuStar Energy, LPthe company goal is still zero. But were wearing gloves that werenothing seems to help. The company inadequate, damaged or the wrong Director from a Site With a Collectivehas utilized a handful of standard type of glove for the hazard. That may Bargaining Agenttraining approaches—awareness be worse. Don Johnson, Phillips 66posters, brochures, increasedclassroom training, pre-shift toolbox Look for these topics highlighted in the Director from a Site Without a Collectivetalks, an LMS for e-learning and more. top right corner of each section. Bargaining AgentAlso, to make it more challenging, Richard McConnell, Austin Industriallocations are nationwide, and even G overnment at LyondellBasellworldwide, so a consistent message isalmost impossible. Perhaps, it’s time to M embership Director from a DOE-VPP Sitemake a major change. Stacy Thursby, AECOM H ealthsections Director from a VPP Contractor/ Business Construction SiteGLOBAL SAFETY AND 6 Jamie Robey, CSP, SGE, The Brock Group HEALTH WATCH Outreach 7 Director-at-LargeINFOGRAPHIC CORNER 28 J.A. Rodriguez, Jr., CSP, SGE , RaytheonMEMBER SPOTLIGHT 30 Technical Services Company LLCFEATURED PRODUCTS 32MEMBER INFO CORNER 34 Director-at-LargeSTATE-PLAN MONITOR 36 Kristyn Grow, CSP, CHMM, SGEVPPPA REGION ROUND-UPS 39 Cintas CorporationCALENDAR OF EVENTS Director-at-Large Kimberly Watson, Southwire Director-at-Large Carey West, The Mundy Companies Director-at-Large Jack Griffith, CH2M Hill Plateau Remediation Company Director-at-Large Dan Lazorcak, CSP, Honeywell International Editor Kerri Carpenter, VPPPA, Inc. Associate Editor Jamie Mitchell, VPPPA, Inc. Editorial Mission The Leader (ISSN 1081-261X) is published quarterly for VPPPA members. The Leader delivers articles from members for members, safety and health best practices, developments in the field of occupational safety and health, association activities, educational and networking opportunities and the latest VPP approvals. Subscriptions are available for members as part of their membership benefits and at a 50 percent discount beyond the complimentary allotment. The nonmember subscription rate is $25 a year. Ideas and opinions expressed within The Leader represent the independent views of the authors. Postmaster >> Please send address changes to: VPPPA, Inc. • 7600-E Leesburg Pike • Ste. 100 Falls Church, VA 22043-2004 VPPPA, Inc., the premier global safety and health organization, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that promotes advances in worker safety and health excellence through best practices and cooperative efforts among workers, employers, the government and communities.vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 5

global safety and health watchWhat Happened to Zika? BY JAMIE MITCHELL, article stated, “The scary government posters is simply through prevention. The Center COMMUNICATIONS with giant mosquitoes have mostly come down. for Disease Control (CDC) has determined COORDINATOR, VPPPA, INC. Fertility clinics are busy again. At one public that Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm hospital that has delivered 1,700 newborns Beach counties are at an increased risk forL ast summer, the Zika virus was all over over the past five months, doctors haven’t seen transmission of the virus. According to a the news, especially surrounding the 2016 a single case of Zika-related birth defects . . . news release from the Miami-Dade County summer Olympic Games in Brazil. While A year after U.N. health officials declared Zika Mayor’s Office, they are preparing for the the stories regarding Zika have taken a bit of a a global emergency, the city that produced summer season by “spreading pesticide and backseat in the news, (due to the winter season, some of the outbreak’s most terrifying and larvicide, doing on-the-ground inspections and the United States presidential election and indelible images of badly deformed infants keeping up with their ‘mosquito surveillance more) they have not disappeared—and neither feels like a place that has mostly moved on.” network’ of more than 130 bug traps across has the threat of the virus. A few key facts that While the prevalence of Zika has decreased the county.” The CDC has also issued a variety we know about Zika include: throughout the Western Hemisphere, it is still of international Zika travel warnings. Some • Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an a health concern to be aware of as warmer of the most recent countries include, Angola, weather, and mosquitos, return. Guinea-Bissau, Maldives and the Solomon infected mosquito—it is estimated that there Islands. Finally, a few recommended tactics are 35 types of mosquitos that can spread So far this year (as of March 2017), no U.S. for preventing mosquitos in and around your the virus, seven of which are native to the residents have contracted the virus from a home are: U.S. It can also be spread through sex. local mosquito, however hundreds of people • Remove standing water where mosquitos • Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman are still contracting Zika through sexual to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can intercourse and international trips. In February, can lay eggs. cause certain birth defects—the most common the public was made aware that scientists at • Use outdoor insect spray. defect is called microcephaly. Washington, D.C.’s public health lab botched • Install/repair window and door screens to • There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika. Zika tests for more than 400 people from July • Local mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission to December 2016. This error led to people prevent mosquitos entering your home. has been reported in the continental U.S. receiving negative test results that could have • Use indoor insect fogger/spray to kill Those locations include Brownsville, TX and been infected with the virus, including 294 South Florida. pregnant women. Two of these pregnant mosquitos and treat the areas where they rest. In recent months, Recife, Brazil, the heart of women were infected with Zika, but initially • Know where mosquitos rest: dark humid the Zika epidemic, has seemed to grow more told otherwise—a heartbreaking discovery. optimistic. A February 2017 Washington Post Unfortunately, as the results are being retested, places, i.e. under the sink, in closets, under more have come back with positive Zika results. furniture or in laundry rooms. With the 2017 summer season approaching, References: mosquitos will surely be abundant in the air soon, but the best way to combat Zika 1. ohsonline.com/articles/2017/03/15/ cdc-identifies-zika-risk-in-miamidade- broward-and-palm-beach-counties. aspx?admgarea=news 2. www.statnews.com/series/zika-update/ 3. www.fox5dc.com/news/ local-news/237682460-story 4. www.washingtonpost.com/world/ the_americas/the-panic-is-over-at-zikas- epicenter-but-for-many-the-struggle- has-just-begun/2017/02/07/a1f15178- e804-11e6-acf5-4589ba203144_story. html?utm_term=.5b7eb2d285c1 5. www.washingtonpost.com/local/ dc-politics/dc-lab-botched-zika-tests- involving-pregnant-women/2017/02/16/ ff068150-f46e-11e6-b9c9-e83fce42fb61_story. html?utm_term=.7922a43266ab 6. www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling- mosquitoes-at-home.html 7. www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/washington- dc-lab-messed-up-hundreds-of-zika-tests_ us_58a72a27e4b07602ad5432066 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

infographic corner Studies show thatU.S. businesses spend over employees forget$160 80 percentbillion of what they learned inannually on employeelearning and training. 30 days.One CEU equals Continuing education is the way10 contact hours ofparticipation in organized to develop new skills orcontinuing education classes knowledge necessary for aand/or training conducted career transition.by a qualified instructor.Obtaining Poorly trainedadditional employeeseducation are a danger toincreases one’s themselves and those theymarketability. work with.vpppa.org Many workplace accidents are the result of inadequate safety training. THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 7

BY TIM PAGE-BOTTORFF, CSP, CETSENIOR SAFETY CONSULTANT, SAFESTARTCan you call it safety “training” when the information provided is REnot being retained? The definition of training is the act of teaching aparticular skill or type of behavior, and for those that tend to sleep orzone out during the presentation, the chances of them recalling what wascovered during the session is low. Even for those who do pay attentionduring the training, the Ebbinghaus’ Forgetting Curve demonstrates howinformation is lost over time unless something is done to retain it. Thecurve shows that over half of the information delivered on day one isforgotten within a couple of days.W hen you consider the potential having to do all of this extra work? Supervisors differences in outcomes between will become frustrated with the disruption and providing effective and ineffective having to regularly remind people of the propertraining it easily becomes apparent that process. It will also be more difficult to achieveyou should invest your time up front to employee buy-in, budget and time from everyonecreate a learning experience that sticks when you try to implement a safety initiative thatwith the participants. isn’t required by law. (I could go on and on with all of the downsides and negative outcomes of Let’s say you have 200 people to train on delivering ineffective training.)Hazard Communication and you do the bareminimum in providing them with the required As a trainer, I don’t want to waste myinformation. For example, 10 one-hour classes time delivering training to a brick wall. Andfor 20 people. You stumble your way through the employees don’t want to sit through thefirst couple of classes and manage to complete same boring training time and time again.the rest slightly less ineffectively through your live But the good news (for both the trainer andpractice sessions with the first few “test subjects.” the participants) is that there are ways toYou tick the box and you’re done. improve retention and it’s all in how you present your training. Except a week later something happens,an employee cannot find a Safety Data Sheet Before you’re even in the classroom, the firstafter a chemical exposure occurred. Thankfully hurdle safety professionals need to overcomenobody was seriously harmed, but it was is the bad reputation that safety training hasserious enough that now you have to fill out earned. Most people don’t like to be told what toan incident report and retrain that person, or do and since safety training is necessary, it oftenpotentially retrain everyone if this incident, or feels like it is being forced onto employees—maybe another subsequent issue, leads you to creating the urge to resist it. Before deliveringbelieve that what you communicated during training, you need to know your audience.the training has been lost. Make the training appeal to what’s important to them (their family, their position within the Now, not only has your ineffective training company, their goals, etc.) and don’t focus oncost you time, money and production delays, it the benefit to the company (or spend less timehas seriously increased the risk of injury or illness. discussing it). The training also needs to be relevant and immediately applicable in order for How receptive will your participants be when them to consider the material.you have to do the training a second time . . .or a third? And how frustrated will you be8 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

TAINRETRAINInstead ofvpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 9

Visuals are a great way of the class. He taught me a lot about keeping thing. Ask for confirmation of understanding to demonstrate what you people engaged and delivering what the throughout with little questions like, “Does can’t convey in words. A audience doesn’t expect. I often use humor in that make sense?” or, “Is that clear for picture is worth a thousand my presentations because people don’t expect everyone?” and look for head-nods (or at least words, a drawing or chart safety training to be funny. Not only does this the absence of confusion on their faces) before will illustrate a concept technique grab their attention, but it keeps moving on to the next point. and a video can speak their attention and gets them talking about the beyond any point you’re training after the class is over. Think beyond the classroom as well. Leave trying to explain. them with some clear and simple takeaways Another effective technique that teachers that they can apply immediately after the class Once you’re in front of your audience, the use includes asking direct questions. By to help solidify what they’ve learned. Also, first thing you need to do is get their attention. addressing people directly, you set the ensure that their supervisors are well-versed in Start with an upbeat, dynamic introduction expectation for them to pay attention to the topic beforehand so they can also monitor that will demonstrate two things: that this isn’t what you’re saying. Or take it to the next and help ensure that the knowledge you’ve going to be the same-old safety training class level and try reverse teaching. Ask the delivered is being retained and turned into and that you’ve clearly invested some time in employees to teach you. This is a great regular practice in their jobs. preparing something special for them. Show form of hands-on training that goes beyond them you’re engaged first, if you have any hope observing the participants performing a task. Overall, safety training needs the right mix of getting them engaged too. Follow this with of various elements to keep the training fresh. some clear objectives and expectations for what Visuals are a great way to demonstrate Use every trick in the book, but only if it makes they’re about to experience. what you can’t convey in words. A picture is sense—people aren’t very tolerant of their worth a thousand words, a drawing or chart time being wasted with gimmicks. Planning Help people focus by minimizing distractions. will illustrate a concept and a video can speak your training presentation to incorporate these Ask people to put their cell phones away, turn beyond any point you’re trying to explain. elements is the only recourse to ensure the off the audible alarms and discreetly go out of information will be retained. Avoid relying too the classroom if they have to take an urgent People naturally learn by doing. Active heavily on one thing, and be sure to practice call. Don’t have unnecessary materials on their participation is so effective because it the delivery of the presentation until you’re tables and hand out printed resources as they are gets employees to think through things comfortable. It’s easy to spot when someone is needed. If applicable, ask supervisors ahead of themselves, and in doing so they begin winging a presentation, and their credibility is time to set the example, come early and stay for building new habits and commit information often shot down along with the presentation, the whole class. to their long-term memory. For example, get which does not bode well for the retention. participants to share a story related to the Next, you want to start building engagement training, relating their personal experience to This sounds like a lot of work—and it is. A with your audience. I remember my high school the training topic is a great way to ensure the study of instructional designers1 showed a ratio history teacher dropping a few well-placed topic lasts in the mind. SafeStart uses stories of 43 hours of development per one hour of curse words, and every ear in that classroom as a key element to training. Most people can classroom instruction. Though this depends perked up and paid attention for the remainder reflect in hindsight after an incident occurs on a lot of factors relating to the material and and pinpoint what they could have done the person creating the learning, it is generally10 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 differently. Telling their SafeStart story puts understood in all types of presentations things into perspective. that you should be spending far more time developing and practicing the session than the Make a game from the topic. Most people, duration of the class itself—starting with clear whether they’re competitive or not, want to objectives and finishing with a very critical eye win. Even if there isn’t a big prize on the table, for eliminating unnecessary information and that sense of accomplishment from winning is refining your message, visuals and delivery. prize enough. When it comes to safety training, they need to know the topic in order to win But when you consider the amount and the best part is—they don’t even realize of risk you’re exposing your workers and they’re learning in the process. your company to and how much more time you’ll spend fixing things afterward, it is Use a bit of neuroscience in developing well worth the upfront investment of doing your message and delivery format. It’s a things right the first time to deliver an complex subject I won’t be able to cover engaging, multifaceted learning experience for here, but there are a lot of resources available your participants. to give you a basic understanding of how the brain works, how adults learn and how Reference: best to structure your teachings to improve knowledge retention and behavior change. 1. Time to Develop One Hour of Training, Association for Talent Development Break things down into bite-sized chunks of www.td.org/Publications/Newsletters/ information and teach one learning point at a Learning-Circuits/Learning-Circuits- time or a small series of points relating to one Archives/2009/08/Time-to-Develop- One-Hour-of-Training vpppa.org



IN SAFETY AND HEALTHAside from the obvious workforce. We have found very few of our as well as perform inspections on different workers are auditory learners. As such, we types of rigging. The workers also learn howregulatory obligations to train present educational material in a manner that to properly rig various items common on the allows the workers to touch and feel the items. site. This method reinforces our approach foremployees on health and This has a strong appeal to our kinesthetic both visual and kinesthetic learners. We have learners. In our training center, we have them found this to be extremely effective in lieu ofsafety matters, what do most actually set up ladders, use the National Institute a PowerPoint presentation as they also provide of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) solutions for real applications. As adults, thiscompanies hope to achieve app to determine the proper angle on the ladder answers the questions for them, including how and don fall protection harnesses. In addition, does this benefit me? In addition, how will Ithrough training efforts? we pass out information in classes, which clearly use this information? illustrates step-by-step procedures. Since adultsI f you ask many employers they will tell you want to know how any training will immediately How does all of this equate to actual their primary goal is to raise employees’ benefit them we make a concerted effort to positive behavioral changes in the awareness concerning health and safety engage them in class. An example of this type workforce? We have found by utilizing the issues through training. However, what of engagement is to ask a volunteer to remove aforementioned techniques that workers will seems to be elusive to most employers is that his or her work boot. We then explain to them consistently produce more comprehensive Job effective training should also achieve positive how to read the American Society for Testing Hazard Analysis, work in a safer manner and behavioral change. In our opinion, effective and Materials (ASTM) label and exactly what apply the buddy system via watching out for training should always result in a change in hazards their boot is designed to protect them fellow co-workers. positive behavior. So what is an example of from. We also distribute damaged fall protection positive behavior in the arena of safety? Positive harnesses to the workers so they can touch and It is of critical importance that safety behavior should be exhibited via fewer at-risk feel the areas that have been compromised via managers take the time to understand how behaviors and overall workers exhibiting better chemical burns, U.V. radiation, etc. their workforce learns and what means and and safer day-to-day decisions. Hence, how do methods produce the best results. At the end of you engage workers with effective training that To reinforce and diversify our training the day, this helps secure a solid path to VPP. It results in a positive behavioral change? We have methods we also invite our vendors to also gives you employee involvement and great found that it is important to teach in a manner conduct classes on rigging. The instructors use feedback from your workforce and building consistent with how most adults, and certainly a hands-on method by bringing various types those relationships. With this, employees are our workforce, learn. of rigging as exhibits. This allows the workers not afraid to come up to a supervisor or safety to actually touch and feel damaged rigging, professional and ask for help or feedback when Most adults are either kinesthetic learners they run into an unsafe condition. or visual learners, which holds true for our12 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

BY DEBORAH HAMPTON CPCU, ARM, CRM, CSHO, CHST & DWAYNE JEFFERY CSHO, CHSTvpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 13

ANDOverexposed Underrated: The Electrical Safety Paradox Facing Today’s Workers and How to Succeed Using Service and Care Standards14 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

BY RICHARD RIVKIN PRESIDENT AND CEO, SAF-T-GARD INTERNATIONAL, INC.It may seem obvious, but it is worth stating that nearly every single aspect of our lives relies on energy. Electricity isone of the most dominant forms of energy, and when properly harnessed, powers the modern industrial age andenables us to function efficiently both at work and home. However, when neglected or not respected, electricitycan cause serious personal injury and death—especially when your job requires constant exposure to its manyhazards. Additionally, and even more importantly, electricity can be largely harmful when you don’t realize thereis an actual threat on your job. Electrical safety is not only a concern for utility workers or contractors. In reality,nearly every single facility has a need for electrical safety, whether the company is a larger facility with buildingengineers overseeing distribution, or a smaller facility with maintenance staff working around floor or wall sockets.Nowadays, maintenance workers, janitorial staff, facilities staff and equipment operators (not just electricians) allrisk exposure to electrical shock. There are quite a large number of possible end users. The truly shocking news isthat many don’t know that they need arc and/or voltage protection and/or that they can (and should) retestin-service rubber insulating gloves (electrical gloves) for continued use instead of needlessly spending moremoney on a new pair. As such, education and awareness is crucial. Not only about the requirements for use,but also about the requirements for in-service inspection and testing of rubber insulating equipment.vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 15

Numerous experts and The Burn Showing Your Hands training programs are Some Glove available to provide Anywhere from five to 10 arc explosions guidance on how to occur in electric equipment every day in the Rubber insulating gloves are the only protective keep workers safe and United States and as many as 10 workers in gear designed for constant contact with, compliant in terms of the U.S. are killed or injured, according to and protection from, energized conductors conducting a proper CapSchell Inc., a Chicago-based research and and equipment. Arc-rated work gloves alone hazard assessment and consulting firm. Additionally, the National provide no protection from live voltage. OSHA selecting the proper PPE. Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports rules and the NFPA 70E standard make the use that more than 2,000 people annually are of rubber insulating products mandatory when16 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 treated in burn centers with severe arc even the smallest possibility of contact with 50 flash injuries. volts AC or higher exists. Arc flash can also lead to shocks and Rubber insulating gloves are an essential electrocutions, and oftentimes it does. In element in protecting workers that are exposed fact, OSHA estimates that 80 percent of to high-voltage currents. Shock protection electrically-related accidents and fatalities is the primary benefit. However, rubber involving “qualified workers” are caused by insulating gloves also provide significant arc flash/arc blast; and between 2007 and burn protection in the event of an arc flash. 2011, more than 2,800 fines were assessed Electrical gloves are manufactured using for not meeting OSHA 1910.132(d) (1.5 proprietary materials and manufacturing fines a day on average). The Bureau of Labor processes with 100 percent testing to provide Statistics (BLS) lists electrocution as the the highest possible level of protection. To be fifth leading cause of workplace fatalities effective, electrical gloves must incorporate in the U.S. with more than 2,000 fatal high dielectric and physical strength, along and more than 24,000 non-fatal electrical with comfort, flexibility and durability. To help injuries reported in the last 10 years. Since ensure safety and performance, they should the BLS counts arc flashes as burns rather meet and/or exceed the requirements of the than in its electrical shock statistics, the true American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) rate of electrical shocks is even higher. That D120-14a—Standard Specification for Rubber said, these statistics don’t address business Insulating Gloves. expenses. All in all, the National Safety Council estimates work-related injuries can According to the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.137 cost businesses more than $30 million in standard, rubber insulating gloves must be fines, medical costs, litigation, lost business rated for the voltage to which a worker will and equipment costs. be exposed (phase to ground or phase to phase) and marked to indicate their rating. While the best way to prevent arc For in-service use, the maximum use voltage incidents from happening is to de-energize must be above the actual exposure, but it is equipment before beginning work, there important to take note of the proof test voltage are instances where turning off the power as well. All rubber insulating gloves are tested could create an even greater hazard. As such, by the manufacturer at the specified proof employers and facility owners must establish test voltage. Manufacturers also perform a safe practices to protect their workers dielectric breakdown test at an even higher against arc flash incidents including the use voltage to validate the dielectric strength of of personal protective equipment (PPE). the rubber material. The result is a significant The NFPA along with the Occupational margin of safety between the test voltages and Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) the maximum use voltage. Each specific hazard mandates and enforces safer electrical work assessment will help in determining which class practices under the NFPA 70E standard. of gloves is appropriate for the application. Numerous experts and training programs are available to provide guidance on how to Take care to choose the correct rubber keep workers safe and compliant in terms insulating glove for the task at hand of conducting a proper hazard assessment and level of electrical exposure. Rubber and selecting the proper PPE. However, one insulating gloves are typically manufactured topic that is often not discussed in detail is in sizes 8–12, often in half sizes, and some the need for rubber insulating gloves where manufacturers also offer gloves as small as a shock hazard exists from exposure to size 7 and as large as size 13. In addition, energized equipment. rubber insulating gloves are available in different cuff lengths of 11, 14, 16 and 18 vpppa.org

inches depending on the glove class. Rubber inspection tool or roll the glove cuff tightly Understanding theinsulating gloves are available in six specific to trap air inside. Then, apply pressure to hazards first and thenvoltage classes (Class 00–Class 4) categorized areas of the glove to inspect for escaping air. identifying the properby the level of voltage protection they provide Repeat the procedure again with the rubber PPE is important, andand whether or not they are resistant to gloves turned inside out. understanding theozone. Voltage protection is broken down into difference betweenthe following classes, and each class of gloves Testing is also a critical and required an arc-rated glove andis clearly marked with the maximum use component to maintaining arc and electrical a voltage-rated glovevoltage on the permanent color-coded label: safety. ASTM Manufacturing and Acceptance is critical. standards mandate the testing of the rubberCLASS PROOF TEST MAX. USE insulating products by the manufacturer orCOLOR VOLTAGE VOLTAGE supplier prior to the first delivery to the end00 AC/DC AC/DC user. Users also have the option of performingBeige 500/750 or requiring an acceptance test upon receipt0 2,500/10,000 of the goods and prior to placing rubberRed insulating products into service. The interval1 5,000/20,000 1,000/1,500 between the date of issue and electrical testingWhite should be based on work practices and test2 10,000/40,000 7,500/11,250 experience. For gloves, the interval shall notYellow exceed six months except for industries such3 20,000/50,000 17,000/25,500 as telecommunications that utilize insulatingGreen gloves as precautionary protection, in which4 30,000/60,000 26,500/39,750 case the maximum interval may be increasedOrange to nine months. However, do not place rubber 40,000/70,000 36,000/54,000 These are all AC voltages. The ASTMstandards also include DC test and maximumuse voltages. For gloves, ozone resistance is coveredby the “Type” designation. A Type I gloveis not ozone-resistant, while a TYPE II isozone-resistant and is manufactured from asynthetic polymer that is also more resistantto many chemicals.Inspect, Test and Retest forContinued Compliance, CostSavings and Safety Success!ASTM F496-08 In-Service standardsrequire the regular inspection of in-serviceequipment. Visually inspecting rubbergloves identifies physical, chemical or ozonedamage. Direct light is recommendedbecause it enhances the ability to see surfaceimperfections on the rubber. Inflating thegloves with air or otherwise stretching thesurface helps identify age and ozone damageas well as other physical damage such assnags, rope burns, deep cuts and punctures. Expand gloves no more than 1.5 timestheir normal size for Type I rubber and 1.25times normal for Type II rubber. Listen forescaping air to detect holes. If a portableinflator is not available, use a rubber glovevpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 17

With several workers increase the voltage to the desired test level. When selecting a test lab for use, make surerequired to wear rubber The dielectric test is two-fold: pass/fail on the that it is a NAIL-accredited test lab. NAILgloves and so many ability to withstand the rated test voltage and, stands for National Association of Independentdifferent testing intervals to for gloves, quantitative on the ability to prevent Laboratories for Protective Equipment Testingconsider, it is easy to see electric current from passing through the (www.nail4pet.org). It incorporates the onlyhow compliance can fall rubber goods above the maximum contained Laboratory Accreditation for the electricalthrough the cracks. in the specifications. Products passing the equipment test labs program in North inspection and test procedures can then be America. NAIL4PET helps develop uniformityinsulating products into service unless they returned to service. If you do not have the in testing and works in close association withhave been tested electrically within the previous equipment required to perform these electrical the American Society of Testing Materials12 months. These in-service retest intervals are tests, there are independent testing facilities (ASTM International).the maximum permitted and in addition to that can perform the acceptance and in-servicethe daily field care and inspection. It is quite testing on behalf of end users. At a minimum, Conclusioncommon for users, including power utilities ASTM standards require that the inspectionand contractors, to specify shorter intervals. and testing process include the following steps: In summation, there are thousands of people, 1. Check-in processes, policies and procedures that have Periodic retesting of rubber insulating 2. Removing previous testing marking resulted in today’s electrical workers havinggloves should be performed at the proof test 3. Washing using cleaning agents that will not the safest rubber insulating products and workvoltage to ensure that they are still safe using practices available. However, they can onlyspecialized equipment designed to gradually degrade the insulating properties be effective if the worker realizes the need for 4. Visual inspection of all services electrical protective equipment and uses the safety industry standards for regular inspection (inside and out) and retesting. Understanding the hazards 5. Electrical test first and then identifying the proper PPE is 6. Final inspection important, and understanding the difference 7. Recordkeeping between an arc-rated glove and a voltage-rated 8. Marking glove is critical. With several workers required 9. Packing in appropriate containers for to wear rubber gloves and so many different testing intervals to consider, it is easy to see storage or shipment (meaning boxes, how compliance can fall through the cracks. or similar sturdy packaging materials to Consider partnering with an electrical test lab prevent folding, creasing or similar loose that can test your rubber goods and manage storage that can cause stress on the rubber) the rubber goods change-out process for you. Keeping these services bundled together under one roof will minimize out-of-service time and save money by delivering a start- to-finish solution that includes cleaning, visual inspection, electrical testing, markings according to your safety protocols and shipment to your warehouse or jobsite so that you can focus on other work priorities while staying safe, productive and compliant! Richard A. Rivkin is President and Chief Executive Officer of Saf-T-Gard International, Inc., a privately- held family-owned and operated global supplier of industrial safety products based in Northbrook, Illinois. Founded in 1936 as Latex Glove Company, Saf-T-Gard carries on the tradition that was started more than 80 years ago: bringing customers the products, training and service they need to keep employees safe in the workplace. Saf-T-Gard actively operates the Voltgard® Test Lab, one of the largest, independent, NAIL4PET-accredited test labs for rubber insulating products in the United States. To learn more, please visit www.saftgard.com or call 1 (800) 548-GARD (4273).18 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org



20 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

BY DR. ISABEL PERRY OWNER, 21ST CENTURY SAFETY, CORP.“Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and awareness and interest about the trainingexpecting different results” program. Each safety nugget can be in the form of short animated videos, question/ —ALBERT EINSTEIN answer, or infographics on a safety topic. • The Content PhaseDoes this sound familiar? An organization’s “safety numbers” are flat In the content phase, the actual skillsand you have tried everything to gain more traction in developing training is conducted. These microlearningand maintaining the safety culture. Although the organization has nuggets are short (5 to 10 minutes) trainingbetter than average numbers for the industry, the company goal is still modules on safety guidelines. Full coursezero. But nothing seems to help. The company has utilized a handful of content is segmented into small modulesstandard training approaches—awareness posters, brochures, increased to not overwhelm the employee—classroom training, pre-shift toolbox talks, an LMS for e-learning and remember, attention spans are limited.more. Also, to make it more challenging, locations are nationwide, These microlearning modules can be briefand even worldwide, so a consistent message is almost impossible. how-to videos. • The Reinforcement PhaseP erhaps, it’s time to make a major Microlearning In the reinforcement phase, employees change. Deploy disruptive training Bite Size Learning is Right Size are given brief job aids to recollect the methods and use 21st century safety information taught in the first two phases. technology to reduce safety incident rates, Microlearning is valuable in the training and Studies show that employees forget 80 improve compliance, drive consistency development profession. Regardless of the percent of what they learned in 30 days. of knowledge across the organization and topic, microlearning is characterized by small With safety, we cannot afford this loss of improve learner motivation. units of learning, short time commitment, a information. Microlearning at this phase small amount of effort and a very narrow topic. can be in the form of quizzes, infographics, Ironically, technology is moving faster than However, all the modules together make it flow charts or other gamified information organizations have adopted it. The competitive complex. Plus, the benefits are music to any that will improve information retention. advantage of being at the front of the curve can organization’s ears because it is cost-effective, help you leap over the competition. flexible and learner-driven. Case Studies Deliver Outstanding Results It is time to rethink how we conduct safety Safety training can be delivered via Logistics Centers at a Large Box training so that is consistent, cost-effective and microlearning in all stages of an employee’s Store Case Study has greater retention. There are three drivers of knowledge cycle. Usually, learning happens this major shift in training: in three phases: orientation, content and The Problem: 1. Today’s workforce wants information quick reinforcement. The orientation phase is when The vice president of safety knew that if the employee is first introduced to a situation, he could achieve a five percent reduction and at their fingertips. This is increasingly and there is a desire to learn. in OSHA recordables, this could save the evident with each generation. company millions of dollars each year. The 2. Advancements in science and technology The content phase is when they learn goals included: reduce safety incidents, build (brain studies) continually demonstrate the skill and the reinforcement phase is for a world-class safety culture, improve employee that more information is retained with retention of the material or “making the knowledge and retention about safety practices, spaced repetition rather than hours of learning stick.” engage multi-generational staff, keep safety top classroom learning. This dilemma is no • The Orientation Phase of mind and predict at-risk behaviors. one’s fault—the problem arises from the overload of information the brain receives. In the orientation phase, before the actual Microlearning as the Solution: 3. As years pass there are increased knowledge training program, microlearning bites can be 75,000 employees in more than 150 demands on employees, and it will only motivational, accident reviews, micro JSA’s distribution centers across the United States soar in the future. (job safety analysis), etc. This sets the stage for participated in the microlearning safety the importance of safety training and creates training program. During each shift, these associates logged onto the computer platform and spent three to five minutes playing a fun game while answering safety questions.vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 21

FIGURE 1: Technology Adoption Lifecycle employees in a manner that would excite them about learning, help them retain informationInnovators Early Early Late Laggards longer and increase the likelihood of translating Adopters Majority Majority that learning into action on the job.“The Chasm” Area under the curve The goal was to locate a cutting-edge represents number approach solution that would: of customers • Integrate into associates’ regular workday25 percent of employees Instantly, employees knew which questions without taking them off the floorleave their job because they answered correctly and where they needed • Appeal to a diverse andthere aren’t enough improvement. Safety training has become alearning opportunities. “continuous loop,” driven by good behaviors multi-generational workforce and fed by the corporate culture, rather than a • Offer flexibility to meet the unique challenges —IBIS WORLDWIDE one-way, top-down approach. in different departments and stores The Results: • Provide a way to measure learning progress • 54 percent reduction in recordable and tie it back to business outcomes incidents, morale has been elevated and injury expenses mitigated Microlearning as the Solution: • 96 percent of behavior observations have Microlearning and gamified learning nuggets been positive, meaning employees are on the topic of workplace safety were delivered applying their knowledge on the job to more than 10,000 employees. They received • 91 percent voluntary participation on the three to five minute long training bursts during program based on its “fun factor” their shifts—either through the point of scale • 15 percent increase of knowledge levels on system or tablets on the store floor. Safety topics around safety training was integrated into their day as a constant reminder of the importance to work Upscale Retail Store Case Study safely. As a result, since employees participated The Problem: in training on an ongoing basis, the The retailer already had a low rate of safety information they learned was reinforced and incidents, but like many organizations, they embedded into their memory, allowing them were not satisfied with being below industry to apply it in their real work environment. standards. The goal was zero accidents and traditional training methods were no longer The Results: providing results, making their numbers flat. • 41 percent reduction in safety claims • $2.2 million savings in one year The vice president of safety stated, “I • 86.6 percent of associates reported their job understood that a direct link existed between effective and continuous safety training and confidence increased the likelihood employees would follow proper • 83 percent said they believed this training procedures, which would reduce injury rates. And enhancing employee knowledge was the starting helped reduce shortage and prevent accidents point. Our workforces are tech-savvy, multi- • 72 percent said they prefer this type of generational, and are required to learn more information than ever before.” He set out to find training to other forms of learning a learning solution to reach this modern group of In conclusion, the vice president of asset protection and risk management noted, “In my 40 years of experience, this is probably the most innovative program I’ve put in place in any of the positions that I’ve been in for retail safety and loss prevention.” Healthcare Case Study The Problem: Board-certified family physicians were trained on stroke prevention and atrial fibrillation. Due to the seriousness of the topic, there was a strong desire to have the highest retention rate possible for the information. Microlearning as the Solution: Physicians attended a three-hour-long classroom session where an atrial fibrillation22 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

expert introduced concepts and presented Organizations have two choices: build U.S. businesses spendtwo video-based cases with scenario-based their micro-learning modules or outsource over $160 billionquestions. While discussing the video-based this project to professionals to create their annually on employeecases, learners were asked to specify a course of new training program. If the first option is learning and training.action, based on the case. Learner performance chosen, remember that the training needsin the classroom was captured. After the to be: Clients worldwide seek Dr. Isabel Perry for herclassroom session, physicians returned to their • Highly engaging expertise on solid safety solutions and futureregular workplaces. Using the data captured in • Micro/tight topic trends. Her career started on the manufacturingthe classroom, they were assigned one or more • Brief floor and soared to the executive boardroom of apersonalized microlearning nuggets, four weeks • Holistic in its total Fortune 50, where 60 percent of accidents wereafter the classroom session. • Builds on former learning reduced in three years. Combining front-line • Uses bullets, lists, and is highly visual safety experience at all levels and advancedThe Result: • Rapidly produced degrees in safety, “The Safety Doctor” currentlyBy providing personalized microlearning • Recursive serves as a safety keynote speaker, consultantnuggets after an in-class learning experience, and safety software developer. Her latest venture,learning results improved drastically. Pretest The second option (outsource the project) 21st Century Safety helps organizations advanceto posttest improvement was 38.5 percent may be less expensive due to the ability to their safety programs with microlearning, mobileand performance improved from 40 percent turn the project around quickly and begin to training and communication solutions with cost-to approximately 80 percent. see positive results. effective mobile apps. Connect with Dr. Perry at [email protected] or (321) 287-7771.Sales Case Study Regardless of how you intend to proceed,The Problem: learn from others. The time for micro-learningA pharmaceutical firm with over 5,000 sales is now.people and 200 drugs wanted its sales reps tobe well-informed about the different aspects References:of its drugs such as their composition, dosage,pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, adverse 1. National Center for Biotechnologyeffects and clinical applications. Training sales Information, U.S. National Library ofreps on 200 drugs was an enormous task. Medicine, The Associated Press 2014Microlearning as the Solution: 2. The Association for Talent DevelopmentTo surmount this barrier, the firm State of the Industry Report 2015implemented microlearning. They developeda curriculum of bite-sized modules for each 3. Brown, Roediger, McDaniel, “Make It Stick:drug. Each module dealt with one aspect of The Science of Successful Learning,” 2014the drug. At the end of each drug-relatedmodule, a quick, scenario-based quiz was 4. Wall Street Journal, “So Much Training, Sodelivered to the reps. These scenarios Little To Show For It” 2012consisted of possible queries that could beposed by doctors in real-time. The firm also 5. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ensured the microlearning modules were File:Technology-Adoption-Lifecycle.pngmobile-compatible so that learners couldaccess them anywhere, anytime. THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 23The Result:The pharmaceutical firm achieved a record 98percent course completion rate.Follow-Up ActionThe above scenarios are only a few of themany positive stories organizations haveattained with the use of microlearning.Bite-sized learning is significantly faster,easier and less expensive to producethan traditional training methods. Ithas consistently achieved higher rates ofimprovement in performance.vpppa.org

REGULATING HANDPROTECTION:Collaboration is the Key to Improvement24 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

BY STEVE GENZER PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS GLOBAL BUSINESS UNIT, ANSELLWhen you’re in the business of hand protection, there are data points that keep you awake at night. Forexample, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of workers who suffered hand injurieswere not wearing gloves when they suffered the injury. That’s frustrating. The other 30 percent were wearinggloves that were inadequate, damaged or the wrong type of glove for the hazard. That may be worse.T hink about that for a second. Thirty “regulations” might be more accurately called that in marketing to customers. If they fail percent of the workers who suffered hand “suggestions.” They aren’t laws, and they usually to meet the standard, that does not stop injuries on the job were wearing gloves, are not enforceable. There are exceptions, of them from marketing a glove with unverifiedbut those gloves were damaged, wrong for course. Some of the most stringent regulations claims—it just means the manufacturerthe job or just not good enough. That’s not in the European Union call for manufacturers’ cannot claim the glove meets the industryacceptable, and yet should we be surprised? PPE product recertification every five years. standard. Remember that, because we’ll comeAccording to a 2014 Ansell brand study, 43 Along with manufacturing process variations, back to it.percent of workers do not know if the gloves manufacturers often produce large batches ofthey wear adequately protect their hands. How product and a small sampling of gloves for Whatever the country, there are gaps inis that possible when there are gloves designed testing purposes may not be fully representative. these standards. Take, for example, cut andspecifically for protection against various Considering the rapid evolution of glove abrasion tests in the U.S. that measure againstworkplace risks—from cut to chemical to fire, technologies that does little more than nudge the American National Standards Instituteand everything in between? manufacturers to keep pace with the state of the (ANSI) cut and abrasion levels. These tests art. There’s value there, but it’s limited. Also, require testing on three to five samples out of It’s a complicated issue, and there is importantly, regulations and standards vary from the thousands of gloves some manufacturersplenty of responsibility to be shared when country to country. Some of the differences are make every year. Additionally, most testingit comes to increasing employee awareness minor, some more significant. requirements allow manufacturers to throw outaround personal protective equipment (PPE). a bad sample and retest a new one. So you’reGlove manufacturers, like Ansell, must be Still, it’s important to remember that, while testing three gloves out of thousands produced,more vigilant in working to deliver the right complicated, regulations are there to provide you get a do-over if one of those three fails,gloves to the right workers. Employers must consistency around testing and grading in (and the test itself has repeatable variability inimprove educational programs around PPE order to ensure industrial environments the range of 25–35 percent). It’s better thanso employees are better informed and fully are safe for workers. With that in mind, no tests at all and certainly indicative of cutunderstand the risks associated with improper let’s break this down in two ways: 1. Glove protection, but it’s far from a perfect method.glove selection and use. Further, regulatory manufacturers; 2. Employers/workers.agencies around the world must continue to And yet, there are manufacturers thatwork toward more effective regulations and Manufacturers: The landscape is different market gloves for cut protection that aren’tcomprehensive compliance programs that around the world, but manufacturers tested even to these imperfect standards or areincentivize best practices as well as discourage generally are guided more by standards; yet tested and fail. That’s why employers mustand reprimand poor behavior. there are no penalties for failing to meet be diligent when selecting gloves. Reputable industry standards. Some countries may manufacturers test against current standards to There are no easy answers. But let’s look at have regulations on the books—Russia and ensure their gloves can deliver the protectionsome of the weak spots in the existing system Brazil are good examples—but, even there, promised. If a cut protection glove isn’t labeledand try to identify some ways we as safety enforcement and market controls are uneven with an ANSI cut level, the glove probably wasprofessionals can do better. and sporadic at best. not tested or didn’t pass the test.Regulations, Standards and More commonly, the industry—usually Employers/workers: Regulatory bodies likeInternational Differences with the help of manufacturers—establishes OSHA set PPE regulations for employers, and standards related to certain types of those regulations can have some teeth. EmployersBefore we dive into a discussion of glove protection. Gloves are tested and, if they meet in violation of these types of regulations can faceregulations, understand this: In most countries, the established standard, are free to reference stiff fines, and repeat offenders can face furthervpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 25

When 43 percent of sanctions. Unfortunately, not all regulations are and PPE expectations and best practices. Safetyworkers can’t say for created equal—they vary by country, by industry education around the world is something ofsure if the gloves they and organization and even by equipment. a mixed bag. In most regulated countries,wear actually protect employee safety/PPE training is mandatory as ittheir hands from the risks In North America, for example, regulations aligns with a workplace risk assessment. That’sof the job, it’s clear our around respiratory PPE equipment can be strict. good, but the right level of training remainsexisting educational The compliance and performance requirements largely subjective, so the real effectiveness ofprograms aren’t working. address specific concerns regarding designated these educational programs often falls short pollutants or chemicals. In these cases, the of best practices. When 43 percent of workers protective gear must be tested, certified and can’t say for sure if the gloves they wear actually recertified, and that gear often is assigned to an protect their hands from the risks of the job, employee who is responsible for maintaining it’s clear our existing educational programs the equipment. Respiratory protection is taken aren’t working. Fortunately, we’ve seen gains seriously, as it should be. in recent years, and more and more employers are mandating safety training and constantly Gloves are a different matter. They usually improving those programs. fall under the umbrella of general PPE, and the associated regulations are far less stringent. As we’ve discussed, when it comes to Instead of training from a safety professional, gloves, most companies rely on generalists employees typically receive mandatory training for training, and their knowledge of current from a generalist, and the quality of that solutions, materials, trends and applications training reflects the difference. And whereas an varies considerably. This is a real gap in the employee receiving respiratory equipment will be workplace safety culture, and improved fitted precisely and issued the exact equipment certification processes that evaluate and certify needed, those seeking hand protection often employer educational programs could make are directed to generally available gloves and a significant difference. There are models for left to their own devices for final selection and this. In the medical space, doctors, nurses fitting. The organization is meeting its regulatory and manufacturers work collaboratively on requirements, but the requirements are lacking. educational programs that keep workers in that space well informed on personal and Again, regulations and adherence to those patient safety practices. There is no reason we regulations varies from country to country. can’t apply the same rigor to industrial and Generally speaking, mature markets are ahead of manufacturing environments. emerging markets, but we do see some interesting trends in that respect. Some emerging markets These are serious issues demanding serious are catching up on regulatory trends by modeling study, discussion and more effective and after some of the more stringent requirements— nuanced solutions from everyone involved. usually from the EU—and tweaking those to As a manufacturer, it’s up to Ansell and our increase their effectiveness. That may mean they competitors to demand better from ourselves increase testing frequency or add a chemical to and from the standards against which our be tested against or something similar; overall it products are measured. Regulatory bodies must encourages regulatory improvements. relentlessly review new materials and solutions and update their regulations accordingly and Emerging markets still fall short in two promptly. Employers must commit not only important areas, however: First, and most to providing appropriate hand protection, but importantly, is around education and training safety managers need to provide better training related to safety. In these markets, we still see about workplace risks and selecting and many workers not wearing gloves at all—often choosing the right gloves for the application. due to a lack of awareness or understanding of hand protection practices and solutions. Second Hand protection is a significant issue—if is in application. Regulations may be in place, but we’re going to make significant changes, the cost of gloves can limit compliance. That’s a we need to do it together. If we can deeper economic challenge, but it’s important. successfully work together toward notable Cost should not be a limiting factor when it progress and adaption, we’ll all reap the comes to worker safety. benefits of significant improvements— consistency and commitment to glove testing The Importance of Education and qualification, ensuring a safe work environment for all. Even the best regulatory programs will fail if workers aren’t educated about workplace safety26 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

Join us for Safety+ NEW NAME,August 29 – SAME GREAT EVENT.September 1, 2017New Orleans, LA AN INTEGRATED SAFETY & HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SYMPOSIUMRegister today atwww.vpppa.org PRESENTED BY VPPPABe a part of our EDUCATE. COLLABORATE. ADVOCATE.safety and healthcommunity! Join thousands of the EHS industry’s most dedicated and ambitious professionals for four days of learning and networking Be inspired to reinvigorate and improve your safety excellence programs Meet and network with others from your region and OSHA and DOE representatives Choose from more than 100 workshops and a dozen educational tracks Visit hundreds of safety and health exhibitors who feature the most up-to- date products available to the EHS community 93%of 2016 attendeesrecommend thissymposium

member spotlightSteve Gauthier BY JAMIE MITCHELL, S teve Gauthier is known throughout Engineers, writing the only Certified COMMUNICATIONS the VPPPA as an accomplished and Metalworking Fluids Specialist Exam; COORDINATOR, VPPPA, INC. innovative safety professional, a great serving for six years on the Massachusetts colleague and as a dear friend. Before starting Toxic Use Reduction Advisory Committee;28 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 his career with General Electric (GE) in assisting in the creation of “ChemHAT” (a 1978 as a machinist, he worked as a heavy searchable database for workers); serving as a equipment operator, homebuilder and an founding committee member of the Alliance auto mechanic. When his plant achieved VPP for a Healthier Tomorrow to promote the approval in 2006, Steve approached GE and reduction of hazardous chemicals in the his workers’ union expressing his interest in community and workplace—and many more. VPPPA—and they agreed that he should Steve’s work will surely continue to help and get involved with the association. Initially, inspire others for countless generations. Steve joined the Labor and Management Committee and was eventually elected as the When asked about his experience with Chair of the committee, serving for two years. the association, Steve noted that, “it’s hard In addition, for the last 12 years, Steve has to express the many ways which VPPPA has served as an active member of the Region I helped me. Being part of an organization like Board of Directors, first as Vice Chair and VPPPA brings great things, whether it’s a best then as the Regional Chair. practice or just something new. The most important thing is the people I have met, Steve has quite an impressive list of learning from these pioneers that came before accomplishments within his career at GE, me has inspired all my efforts.” In addition, which he credits to the great people he has Steve believes one of the most valuable things met, whether it was on the shop floor of he has gained from the association is his a factory or in a laboratory. A few of the experience and passion for safety. “This is accomplishments he is most proud of include: not learned from a text book, intellectually becoming a licensed heating, ventilation yes, but it must be learned by experiencing it and air conditioning specialist; becoming and by being able to work with people always a Six Sigma Green Belt at his company; willing to teach me.” While it is hard to single participating as an ad hoc committee member out specific people, Steve mentioned he pulls of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication his inspiration and guidance from a variety of individuals, “I have worked side-by-side with so many people, and whether it was running a machine or working in an office, they have all inspired me by what they do. Everyone has such talent.” One piece of advice Steve would offer his peers includes, “Environment health and safety professionals, activist or committee member, be open-minded and willing to be creative by providing solutions to problems and not just fixate on the problem. I believe EHS impacts everyone, and we must keep in mind who is being protected.” Finally, Steve hopes his legacy will be one that encompasses his passion for safety and that he was an example to those that know him. Steve is a huge part of the success of VPPPA and he will be truly missed by everyone. The VPPPA wishes you a wonderful, fun and relaxing retirement! vpppa.org

Happy Retirement!“S teve has been a key player in the Labor and Management Committee and one of the keystones to its success. His unwavering tenacity on any project he undertakes, along with attention to detail has made him an asset to the organization and the union he represents. He will be greatly missed. Best wishes Steve for a long and happy retirement!” —DON JOHNSON, VPPPA NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS“I was the Chairman when Steve was joining our VPPPA Region I Board of Directors nearly 10 years ago, and I had the opportunity to read his incredible biography. I knew from his accomplishments in many settings that he would be a great Chairman and I was glad he agreed after some gentle convincing. I was (and I still am) truly amazed at the vast number of contributions he has made to improve worker safety and labor management relations, to educate small businesses and the academic community on safety, to promote and support OSHA VPP and VPPPA and his ability to bring all parties together (whatever the cause) as a passionate leader. Steve pioneered safety education advancements associated with metalworking fluids and oil mists, and he has educated thousands of people on green chemistry opportunities and safer alternatives to chemicals. It has been a real honor for me to serve on the VPPPA Region I Board of Directors and participate in OSHA, VPP and VPPPA activities with Steve. I will miss his friendship, his get-it-done spirit and his Region I leadership. Congratulations, Steve, on your well-deserved retirement. Best wishes for a long and healthy one!” —JACK POPP, VPPPA REGION I BOARD OF DIRECTORSvpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 29

FEATURED PRODUCTS Booth 831 Booth 318DENTEC SAFETY SPECIALISTS, INC. GLOVE GUARDComfort-Air® 130M Full Face Respirator OktoLock™ clipClaudio Dente Melissa [email protected] / 1 (888) 533-6832 [email protected] / (832) 217-0657www.dentecsafety.com www.gloveguard.comDentec Safety introduces the new Comfort-Air® 130M The OktoLock™ clip safely secures your cords to mitigateFull Face Respirator made from a new special composite potential trip hazards. The clip is designed to fit hand railingsilicone material. This new silicone material offers the best or pipes up to 2-inch in diameter and the 3-inch diametercombination of comfort and durability. lower loop holds cords, hoses, welding leads or stingers.Booth 809 Booth 446 GAS CLIP TECHNOLOGIES HELLMAN & ASSOCIATES, INC. Multi Gas Clip Simple EHS Consulting Jeremy Majors Bobby Lewis (972) 775-7577 [email protected] / (970) 381-7465 www.gascliptech.com www.ehscompliance.com The non-charging portable 4-gas detector for H2S, CO, AssuredCompliance Software™ enables you to manage O2 and combustible gases (LEL) provides continuous compliance across operations by assigning and tracking assurance of protection 24/7 for two years—requiring no tasks. You can view the big picture of your EHS operations, battery or sensor replacement! Visit our booth and learn drill down on outstanding compliance issues, and know how low-power photometric infrared technology makes what needs to be resolved and who is accountable. 4-gas detection simple! vpppa.org30 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017

Booth 655 AN INTEGRATED SAFETY & HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SYMPOSIUM PRESENTED BY VPPPA Booth 521KEYTROLLER, LLC TICK KEY PRODUCTS, LLCKEYCHECK Original Tick KeyTerry Wickman Donna [email protected] / (813) 877-4500 [email protected] / (860) 618-3072www.keytroller.com www.tickkey.comKEYCHECK: Equipment checklist app supplied in rugged The easiest-to-use tick removal device on Earth. 99.9%Andriod 7-inch tablet. Mounted on only one machine or effective in the removal of all sizes & types of ticks. Fieldprogrammed with different checklist items for variety workers need a Tick Key for proper tick removal. 19 greatof vehicles. Data sent via WiFi or cellular to cloud portal colors. Private label available.where user views fleet checklist data. Booth 707 Booth 911ROCO RESCUE WORKING CONCEPTS, INC.CMC/Roco FreeTech Harness Stop-A-LadderTeresa Wilson Leslie [email protected] / (800) 647-7626 [email protected] / (888) 456-3372www.rocorescue.com www.softknees.comThe FreeTech™ Harness allows the user to safely and easily Stop-A-Ladder stops your extension ladder from slippingtransfer their body weight from the dorsal connector on on smooth surfaces such as synthetic decking. Simply setthe upper back to the front waist location of the harness to your extension ladder on top of the Stop-A-Ladder withreorient the user into a seated position. ladder feet against the stop slip. If moving ladder sideways, attach strap to bottom rung.vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 31

member info corner NNoamtiionnaatlionBosardIf you believe that you National Board Nominations your hard work, while also inspiring your peers?can help shape the VPPPA features a number of programs, includingnational agenda and set It’s that time of year again! In conjunction with awards, scholarships and an achievement programthe association’s priorities Safety+, taking place Aug. 29–Sept. 1, 2017 to recognize the extraordinary efforts of memberfor the future, then join a in New Orleans, Louisiana, elections will be sites and individuals who go above and beyondVPPPA committee! held for VPPPA National Board of Directors’ in their efforts to improve safety and health for positions. This year there are six open positions: the American workforce. Below are the availableNational Board Nominations • Vice Chair recognition programs to apply to by June 2:VPPPA Awards and Scholarships • Secretary • The VPPPA Annual Awards for Outreach • Director from a Site with a CollectiveRoster Contest Committee and Innovation recognize member sitesJoin a National Bargaining Agreement and individuals that have made exceptional • Director from a DOE-VPP site contributions to the mission of VPPPAJob Board Outreach • Director-at-Large (three positions available) during the previous year.Congressional • Have you initiated best practices? The To be elected to the VPPPA National VPPPA Safety & Health Achievement Board of Directors, a nominee must be an Program provides special acknowledgement employee of a full or corporate member site to non-managerial employees at member in good standing with the association. If you sites who have taken the initiative to learn wish to nominate yourself or someone else for and apply safety and health best practices. a position, please complete and submit the • Or maybe you’d like to further safety and health following materials: education for a family member or yourself? • Nomination form VPPPA’s scholarships will help achieve that goal. • Signed election protocols Winners will be announced at the national • Management commitment letter symposium during a special reception on • A platform statement of no more Monday, Aug. 28. than 300 words Roster Contest • Your head shot We couldn’t make this contest any easier if All materials are due to the nominating we tried! To ensure each of our members committee by May 26, 2017. Nomination are receiving the benefits they deserve, we forms may be found online on the need your site rosters to be updated. Please homepage of the website. The exact address update the roster that was included in our is: www.vpppa.org/advancement/news/ membership mailing with all of your current nominations-open-for-2016-vpppa-national- employees. After we receive your faxed or board-members. Send submissions to Kerri emailed updated roster, we will randomly Carpenter, 2017 Nominating Committee select one prime contact to win a gift card. Liaison, at [email protected]. By helping us update our rosters, you’re also helping yourself and your co-workers receive VPPPA Awards and Scholarships Although you don’t do your job solely to receive praise, wouldn’t it be nice to be recognized for32 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 vpppa.org

the benefits they deserve. Send your updated Job Board Get Involved in Congressionalroster to [email protected] by July 1, Outreach: You Can Makefor a chance to win. If you need another Calling all employers and employees! a Differencecopy of your site’s roster, please contact VPPPA’s Job Board provides a vast databasethe Membership Department via the email of professional opportunities available VPPPA’s next congressional outreach isaddress above or call (703) 761-1146. throughout the EHS industry. Constantly taking place June 7–8 in Washington,If you have already submitted your site’s updated with new job openings, the VPPPA D.C. following the National VPPPA Boardroster, you are already entered into our Job Board is a great resource for those looking of Directors meeting. We are looking forrandom drawing. to make a professional move. volunteers from VPP sites to educate and spread awareness of the impacts of VPP. ThisJoin a National Committee Employers—do you have any jobs you would is your opportunity to meet with Senators like to post? Please email communications@ and Representatives from all over theThere’s still time to express interest in one of vpppa.org with the following: United States and share your personal VPPthe national committees, but you’ve got to • Job title experiences, accomplishments and concerns.act quickly! Would you like to facilitate the • Company name We’ll provide training and materials for theseimprovement and growth of the mentoring • Location visits—all you need is your passion for VPP.program? Maybe you want to advocate for • Description/requirements of the position For more information, or to volunteer, emailimproved communication between labor and • Expiration date for the posting Katlyn Pagliuca at [email protected]. If you believe that you can • How to applyhelp shape the national agenda and set theassociation’s priorities for the future, thenjoin a VPPPA committee! Express your interest in a committee bysubmitting a committee interest form onlineby May 26 to be considered for a positionon a national committee at the next boardmeeting, taking place June 6. As a member of a committee, you willtake part in a monthly conference call withthe other committee members. The call willdiscuss upcoming events and opportunitiestaking place within that committee and themembers will explore ways to help advancethe association. There are committees that fit all schedules(approximately a two-hour time commitmentper month) and interests:• Awards• Conference Planning• Construction• Education• Labor and Management• Legislative and Regulatory• Member Services• Mentoring• Marketing• Nominating Learn more about each committee on ourcommittee page: www.vpppa.org/about-vpppa/committees.vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 33

state-plan monitorCOMPILED BY KATLYN PAGLIUCA,MEMBERSHIP AND OUTREACHMANAGER, VPPPA, INC. Federal OSHA States Employees of AJ Oster employees celebrate Cal/VPP Star ceremony, February 10, 2017. State-Plan States Public Sector Only Tennessee Johnsonville and Energy Solutions Bear Creek Operations in Oak Ridge.34 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 On December 15, 2016, TDLWD Commissioner, Burns Phillips, presented the Wyoming employees of Bridgestone Warren County in Morrison with their Volunteer STAR award as Black Hills Energy, Cheyenne Prairie part of the site’s fifth certification effort. Generating Station, has started the VPP process. Their goal is to accomplish VPP On January 24, TOSHA Administrator Steve within approximately one year. Hawkins presented the employees of SI Group in Newport with their Volunteer Star award as Virginia part of the site’s second certification effort. There are currently 44 active sites (43 Star Successful onsite evaluations were and one Merit) in the Virginia VPP. We have recently conducted at WestRock in completed two re-approval evaluations at GE Lewisburg, Olin Chemical in Charleston, Drives & Controls in Salem, VA and Cargill The Chemours Company in New Feed Mill in Harrisonburg. There were over 150 attendees at the February 2 NASA Langley Best Practice Day. Future Best Practice days include: • Machine Guarding—September 13 at Goodyear, Danville, VA. • Electrical Safety—November 8 at GE Drives & Controls, Salem, VA. To register for these events, go to www.Ticketbud.com and search under Virginia VPP events. Three workshops were presented to instruct aspiring VPP sites on how to use the Challenge OCTPS Gap Tool. Finally, plans are forming for the 22nd Annual VOSH Conference at the Virginia Beach Conference Center. This event takes place from October 16–20. vpppa.org

contacting each state >>California Alaska Michigan South Carolina Michael Bowles Sherry Scott Sharon DumitOn February 10, 2017, AJ Oster-West VPP Manager MVPP Manager VPP CoordinatorYorba Linda held their Cal/VPP Star [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]. Kevin Bense, President of Phone: (907) 269-4948 Phone: (517) 322-5817 Phone: (803) 896-7788AJ Oster-West, congratulated all theemployees for the Cal/Star achievement. Arizona Minnesota TennesseeRichard Fazlollahi Cal/OSHA Santa Ana Jessie Atencio Ryan Nosan David BlessmanEnforcement District Manager, welcomed Assistant Director MNSTAR VPP Coordinator VPP Managerthe site to Cal/Star program. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Phone: (520) 220-4222 Phone: (651) 284-5120 Phone: (615) 253-6890 This AJ Oster site was mentored byNichole Peters and Loren Brewster from California Nevada UtahToyota North American Parts Center in Iraj Pourmehraban Jimmy Andrews Jerry ParkstoneCalifornia. The Cal/VPP team included Elisa Cal/VPP & PSM Manager VPP Manager VPP CoordinatorVillanueva, Team Leader; Barry Blodgett, ipourmehraban@ jimmy.andrews@ [email protected] Consultant and Jason Quon and hq.dir.ca.gov business.nv.gov Phone: (801) 530-6901Cesar Moreno as Special Team Members Phone: (510) 622-1080 Phone: (702) 486-9046from Northrop Grumman. One of the site’s Vermontbest practices that the team identified was Hawaii New Mexico Daniel Whipplethe employee recognition program which Clayton Chun Melissa Barker VPP Coordinatorencourages employees’ participation in Supervisor/VPP Coordinator VPP Coordinator [email protected] safety activities and discourages [email protected] [email protected] Phone: (802) 828-5084hiding minor injuries. Plant Manager, Phone: (808) 586-9110 Phone: (505) 222-9595Jorge Nieve, and EHS Coordinator, Hai VirginiaNguyen, attended the recent Special Team Indiana North Carolina Milford SternMember (STM) training and are working Beth A. Gonzalez LaMont Smith VPP Managerwith Cal/VPP Coordinator, Haxhi Shala, VPP Team Leader Recognition Program [email protected] Sherwin Williams-Moreno Valley to [email protected] Manager Phone: (540) 562-3580 x 123perform a pre-visit. Phone: (317) 607-6118 [email protected] Phone: (919) 807-2909 WashingtonNew Mexico Iowa John Geppert Shashi Patel Oregon VPP ManagerThe New Mexico Occupational Health and VPP Coordinator Mark E. Hurliman, CSHM [email protected] Bureau approved Raytheon Missile [email protected] VPP/SHARP Program Phone: (360) 902-5496Systems, Raytheon Ktech for participation in Phone: (515) 281-6369 Coordinatorthe New Mexico Zia Star Voluntary Protection mark.e.hurliman@ WyomingProgram. Raytheon Ktech is the first research Kentucky oregon.gov Clayton Gauntand development facility to be approved by the Brian Black Phone: (541) 776-6016 VPP ManagerNew Mexico State Plan. VPP Program Administrator [email protected] [email protected] Puerto Rico Phone: (307) 777-7710 Phone: (502) 564-3320 Ilza Roman Director Maryland [email protected] Allen Stump Phone: (787) 754-2171 VPP Manager [email protected] Phone: (410) 527-4473Left to Right: Christopher Patscheck, Dave For additional information and up-to-date contacts, please visitArtery, Steve Downie, Josh Montano, Susan www.vpppa.org/chapters/contacts.cfmKelly, Hyte Johnson, Keena Trujillo, MaryClum, Tina Decker, Jennifer Hayes, NM THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 35OHSB’s Melissa Barker and Ronald Walser.vpppa.org

regional round-upsCOMPILED BY JAMIE MITCHELL, Region I Region IIICOMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR, Region III Larry ShafferVPPPA, INC. Region I continues to support the national Memorial Scholarship legislative outreach initiative, codification of VPP. The bipartisan Voluntary Region III awarded three $500 scholarships Protection Program (VPP) Act H.R 1444, in 2017. The fund was created to assist was reintroduced on March 9, following children, grandchildren, spouses and the outreach by VPPPA and its member employees of member companies within companies. We are proud to say, Region I region III that are working to improve their had two representatives on hand that education, and meet the criteria of the visited with several of the New England scholarship. The winners include: delegates. During these visits, it was nice to • Laura Palmer Daughter of Timothy Palmer see an interest regarding the importance of workplace safety and health. Alban CAT Myersville, MD • Laura Bailey Daughter of David Bailey, The region continues to thrive with our outreach mentoring initiatives and there are GE Drives Salem, VA still many companies which have expressed • Emilee Kale Daughter of Deb Kale, an interest in becoming an elite VPP/VPPPA member company. One company that has gone Alban CAT Baltimore, MD above and beyond is Cartamundi (previously Hasbro) with Region I director-at-large, Jack Region Election/ Popp and others providing mentoring to Nomination Information several of the companies in the pursuit of VPP. We are currently soliciting for open positions Cartamundi has received the 2017 Region I on the board; especially a director-at-large mentoring award. (hourly from a non-represented site). Also, thanks to the many companies that Region III Federal Update have been supportive of these mentoring The Region III VPP from the federal outreach efforts. The Region I companies perspective continues to be very active. In are remarkable and always willing to step up 2016, we conducted 24 reapprovals and and support the region’s needs whether it’s approved eight new sites. This year, we are on a location for a quarterly region meeting or track to conduct around 33 reapprovals and taking part in the annual conference. at least 10 new sites. Applications continue to be submitted to the VPP Manager on a Finally, we want to welcome the new steady basis. We regularly receive inquiries Regional Administrator, Galan Blanton. regarding the program and are always pleased to explain the process. Special Government Contributed by Steve Gauthier, Employees (SGEs) are also very supportive of Region I Chairperson our program. Virginia Activities for 1Q 2017 Plans are forming for the 22nd Annual VOSH Conference at the Virginia Beach Conference Center October 16–20, 2017. We hope you can join us. Contributed by Michael LaPradd, Region III Secretary Pocono Mountain, PA Region IV36 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 The Region IV VPPPA Safety and Health Excellence Conference is scheduled for June 20–22 at the Sheraton-Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, GA. Learning opportunities during the conference include the following paid Continued on page 38 vpppa.org



regional round-ups Atlanta, GA Leigh Jackson, Region IV VPP Manager, recently shared that Region IV OSHA OSHA is very appreciative is working hard to meet their goal of of the SGE assistance and scheduling and conducting seven pre- support they receive. approval evaluations and stay on target to conduct 44 reapproval evaluations in fiscal38 THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 year 2017. SGE’s are an integral part of the process, and critical to the achievement of their goals. OSHA is very appreciative of the SGE assistance and support they receive. Contributed by Christopher J. Colburn, Region IV Treasurer Continued from page 36 Region V SGEs Wanted pre-conference workshops: 1) OSHA 10-Hour for General Industry, 2) OSHA Recordkeeping The 2017 VPP assessment schedule for Rules, 3) VPP Application Workshop and 4) Region V has been posted on the website. If Strengthening Star Quality Workshop. Free you’re a SGE and looking to participate on an Pre-Conference Workshops topics include: 1) assessment in 2017, be sure to review the VPP VPP 101, 2) Safety Leadership: Conventional schedule and contact the OSHA lead as soon as Wisdom and Unintended Consequences, 3) possible. For the VPP assessment schedule and When Your Body Wears Out—Where are you the OSHA contacts, please visit the website Going to Live, 4) Preparing for your First VPP www.vppregionv.org/region-v-sges. Audit, 5) Conference First Timers Orientation Workshop, and 6) Risk Reduction Programs Contributed by Steve Washburn, in Healthcare—Improving Costs: Are They Region V Director-at-Large Worth It. In addition to these Pre-Conference activities, 54 Conference Breakout Sessions Region X will be offered during the conference. Region IV will also be hosting an OSHA Special The Region X board of directors experienced Government Employee (SGE) Workshop prior many changes since November of 2016. Michelle to the start of the conference (June 18–20). Steeler stepped down as the chairperson. Rocky Simmons of Mission Support Alliance Region IV VPPPA is also now facilitating located in Richland, WA, was appointed to the periodic webinar learning opportunities. The chair position with Max VanValey of Carlisle webinars are open to anyone for $75 per Construction Material located in Puyallup, WA participant, but have been deeply discounted as Vice Chairperson. The board filled the vacant for VPPPA members to $45 per participant. director-at-large position with Cliff Butler of The most recent webinar was, “Why You Can Purdy, located in Portland, OR. In addition, No Longer Afford to Ignore the Worst Drug Michael Bowles of Alaska Occupational Safety Epidemic in U.S. History,” presented by the and Health (AKOSH) announced he’s no Psychemedics Corporation. Please visit the longer with AKOSH. Christen Hendrickson Region IV VPPPA website (www.regionivvpp.org) is his replacement. for more information. A Special Government Employee (SGE) training course took place January 10–12, in Keyport, WA. Fourteen graduates are now eligible to assist OSHA to perform onsite reviews and other assigned tasks as needed. Federal OSHA is scheduled to perform two Star reapprovals with Oregon OSHA. Contributed by Jack Griffith, Region X Chairperson and National Board Director-at-Large vpppa.org

calendar of events VPPPA ContactsJune To reach the VPPPA National Office, call (703) 761-1146 or visitJune 1, 2017 July www. vpppa.org. To reach a particular staff member, please refer#HowISafety Contest Deadline July 1, 2017 to the contact information below.June 7–8, 2017 Roster Contest Deadline Mike Maddox [email protected] Outreach following August Executive Directorthe VPPPA National Board of Ext. 103Directors Meeting August 29–September 1, 2017 Sara A. Taylor, CMPJune 23–26, 2017 33rd Annual National VPPPA [email protected] Safety & Health Conference, Director of OperationsRegion II VPPPA Chapter Conference now called Safety+ Ext. 107Tropicana Casino & Resort Ernest N. Morial Convention CenterAtlantic City, NJ New Orleans, LA Amanda McVicker, CMP [email protected] 20–22, 2017 Conference & Education Manager Ext. 112Region IV—2017 Safety & HealthExcellence Conference Kerri CarpenterSheraton Atlanta [email protected], GA Communications & Outreach ManagerAN INTEGRATED SAFETY & Ext. 121HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SYMPOSIUM Jamie Mitchell [email protected] Communications Coordinator Ext. 117 Katlyn Pagliuca [email protected] Membership Manager Ext. 115 Natasha Cole [email protected] Member Services Coordinator Ext. 113 Heidi Hill [email protected] Event Sales & Advertising Coordinator Ext. 111 Michael Khosrofian [email protected] Accountant Ext. 104 Bryant Walker [email protected] Information & Data Analyst Manager Ext. 110 Courtney Malveaux, Esq [email protected] Government Relations Counsel Ext. 105vpppa.org THE LEADER / SPRING 2017 39

7600-E Leesburg Pike, Suite 100Falls Church, VA 22043-2004Tel: (703) 761-1146Fax: (703) 761-1148www.vpppa.orgVPPPA, a nonprofit 501(c) (3) charitableorganization, promotes advances in worker safetyand health excellence through best practices andcooperative efforts among workers, employers, thegovernment and communities.SCAN QR CODETO LEARN MOREABOUT VPPPA, INC.http://bit.ly/jVQcBo PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER