2022 Spring Leader - 100 Years of Safety

VOL9/NO2/SPRING 2022 100 YEARS OF SAFETY PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE



CONTENTS VOL 9 | NO 2 | SPRING 2022 FEATURES 32 10 28 COLUMNS Fifty Years of OSHA The Evolution of Safety 4 Message from the Chairperson Certifications—100 Years 6 Women in Safety By Doug Parker, Assistant in the Making 8 Safe + Sound Week 2022 Secretary of Labor for 46 The History of Ericson Occupational Safety and Health Co-Authors: Leah Beckworth, CSP, STSC, MS, SECTIONS 12 UCOR Industrial Safety Manager Stephanie Miller, CSP, CIH, 44 Infographic Corner The Past, Present & STS, MS, UCOR Safety Systems 48 Membership Corner Future of ESG Integration Manager 50 Ad Index By Julian Moffatt, 32 VelocityEHS, Principal Solutions Strategist, ESG The Future of OHS 16 By Brenda Kay Wiederkehr, CSC Owner of Access Compliance Head-to-Toe PPE: Where We’ve Been and 34 Where We’re Going The Psychological Frontier By Nicole Randall, ISEA, Director, Marketing & External Affairs By Rachel Bell, Brewers Association Safety 20 Subcommittee Co-Chair Temporary Worker 38 Safety: New Initiatives to Address an Old Problem The Future of Safety Is Looking Grim By Adele L. Abrams, Esq., ASP, CMSP, Law Office of Adele L. By Phil La Duke, Speaker, Abrams PC Writer, & COVID Compliance and Production Safety Consultant 26 38 The Future is Hotter: How to Protect Workers from Heat Stress By Beth Angus, MPH, CIH, Safex, Industrial Hygiene Consultant vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 3

A Message From the VPPPA Chairperson I am glad to see we Hello VPP Community, continue to raise the bar in workplace safety, so T his edition of the Leader honors 100 years of safety, and I could not be prouder of our children have a safer how the VPPPA and VPP community have helped safety evolve over the years. Most work environment. everyone has seen the infamous 1920s photo above, showing workers having lunch sitting on a single I-Beam 840 feet above New York City, or you’ve heard stories of miners using birds as an early warning to get out of the mine. It’s safe to say, safety has drastically evolved since then, and it is thanks in no small part to the hard work and dedication from leaders in labor, business, and our government. I cannot help but to think back on some of the pioneers in safety. True leaders like the labor organization that had the simple idea to build San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant outside of San Diego in the late 70s without having any fatalities. Their leadership in reaching out to the construction contractor to see how it could be done and both contacting Cal-OSHA for their assistance was extraordinary. Those leaders created a safety management system which is now called the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP). This simple, yet genius, idea to create a system that empowers the worker to take charge of their own safety through the support of the employer, as well as OSHA, has truly helped safety evolve over the past 40+ years. I read an article not too long ago that stated today’s workers expect a safe workplace as part of their employment. While I will not give up my age, when I entered the workforce that was not the case. I am glad to see we continue to raise the bar in workplace safety, so our children have a safer work environment. I truly believe the VPP community had a hand in this, and I look forward to seeing how we continue to improve our systems, our workplaces, and our mindset to achieve safety excellence for many more years. As part of these continual improvement efforts, we hope to see you at one our 10 Regional Conferences this year, as well as our national Safety+ Symposium being held in the nation’s capital in August. We were also very excited to have a track at the BCSP virtual Global Learning Summit (GLS) this May. These events inspire collaboration and innovation, which contributes greatly to the continued evolution and improvement of safety. The VPPPA looks forward to supporting our members, partners, and the entire safety community for the next 100 years! —T erry Schulte, Chairman—National VPPPA Board of Directors We are better together! 4 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

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Women in Safety By Stacy A. Thursby, CSP, STS, SGE President and Owner of Safety PACE, LLC Teleworking—Changing the Impacts of Women in Safety VPPPA Presents… W omen in Safety President Richard Nixon signing the Occupational Safety and Women in Safety have seen Health Act of 1970. Department of Labor a dramatic While the safety industry change from Past Experiences— and tenacious women who is still a male-dominated the past roles of women, where Women’s Role in Safety worked tirelessly to improve industry, the number of women are now, and what the working conditions for women is increasing each the future has in store for Many safety professionals are Americans. Dr. Alice Hamilton year. It’s important to females in the Occupational aware that President Richard (now considered the founder of identify and communicate Safety and Health industry. My Nixon signed into law the industrial medicine in America) the issues that women face. personal experience includes Williams-Steiger Occupational met U.S. Commissioner of working in the mining and Safety and Health Act in Labor Charles Neill at the In each issue of the tunneling industries along with 1970, which gave the Federal 1910 European conference on Leader, we will be including heavy construction, nuclear Government the authority occupational accidents and an article from a prominent remediation, and environmental to set and enforce safety and diseases. At only the beginning woman working in the permitting. For the first five health standards for most of of her career, Hamilton safety and health industry. years of my career (early the country’s workers. This act was already pioneering If you, or someone you 90s) I was the only woman was the result of a hard fought investigations as director know, would like to write for on the jobsite—other than legislative battle which began of the Illinois Occupational this column, please contact administrative assistants. I was in 1968 when President Lyndon Disease Commission. Neill VPPPA at communications@ often misplaced as a secretary. Johnson unsuccessfully sought invited her to work as a special vpppa.org. a similar measure. However, investigator for the Bureau Finding a woman doing safety the roots of government of Labor. She accepted, and Women were 50 years ago was almost unheard regulation of workplace until 1921, traveled around the seen as a risk, of. However, women played a hazards dates back to the late country visiting lead smelters, as opposed to pivotal role in formulating the 19th century. storage battery plants, and providing ways laws and regulations that are other hazardous workplaces. In to protect still in place today. My career Laying the groundwork the workers. experience is quite varied and for this act were strong has shaped the way I mentor 6 Leader—Spring 2022 and teach new safety and health professionals entering the workforce. During the last few years with the trend of working remotely, the impact of women in safety has improved. Women are more appreciated to greater extent for what they provide on a technical and programmatic basis. The playing field has equalized very quickly through telework where “people” are the asset, regardless of gender. vpppa.org

1911, she published a study of My first job was on a college. I provided the lessons upon technical expertise, the white lead industry that was very large construction and that I learned and methods I minimizing the gender role. the first of a series of Bureau tunneling project in Texas. Of used to be the advocate for the Telework has contributed to of Labor reports known as the the hundreds of employees, workers while maintaining a leveling the playing field for “Federal Survey.” She found I was one of three women on professional posture. Women all professionals allowing the many examples of deplorable this project that held technical were gaining acceptance but talents of the individuals to conditions and gross neglect. positions. I was young, still were not afforded those be recognized. inexperienced, and female—a high-level management roles. In 1933, President Franklin difficult combination. I had Many companies are D. Roosevelt selected Frances to remain professional and I recognized that I could recognizing that a hybrid Perkins as Secretary of Labor technically competent in change the dynamic by starting path forward (telework/field and the first female Cabinet face of discrimination by the my own Environmental, Safety, work) to support a work/ member. She brought to the very seasoned workers and and Health company, which life balance is needed to keep Labor Department extensive management personnel who I did in 2019. I took the lead their professionals engaged. experience in occupational were all men. I was often seen as from others who encouraged Women have been doing this safety and health with the “bad luck” when underground me to use my specific talents for years. This opens the door State of New York. To help with the miners. Women were and experience to take charge for additional women to put assure that workplaces would seen as a risk, as opposed to and ownership of my career. their talents to use and enter be safe by applying science and providing ways to protect the I reached out to my trusted the workforce. This could also technology, Perkins created a workers. This theme lasted mentors (both men and women) allow women to be in roles that Bureau of Labor Standards in for 20 years into my career, to navigate the next steps for me were traditionally held by men, 1934 initiating the platform where at each new job, I had and my company. The results and for the equal alignment of for those interested in job something to prove. were both positive and career the compensation for men and safety and health. This was affirming. I noticed that I was women working the same job. the first permanent Federal Where Women Are being viewed as a professional agency established primarily Now—Opportunities and not a female. Women are making a mark in to promote safety and health and Options the Safety and Health profession for the entire workforce. Women currently have more and the future shows optimism The Bureau helped state As more women entered the opportunities and options in for that trend to continue. governments improve their workforce, so did the number the workplace. Women-owned The best outcome is to talk administration of job safety and of women safety and health businesses are on the rise in about how safety and health health laws and raise the level of professionals. Women were the Safety and Health field and professionals are protecting their protective legislation. hired because of their skill provide a necessary perspective our workers each day where the set and technical expertise. in the protection of our workers. gender of the professionals is My personal history started However, the bias between Women are applying the talents not considered. The objective is in the early nineties graduating men and women continues and skills that are unique to to protect the nation’s workers from Indiana State University to exist. Females still had to women offering an empathetic to the best of our ability using with a degree in Safety demonstrate their abilities as perspective to worker technology, science, and Management and Industrial opposed to the men who were protection. That nurturing innovations. Ours is a noble Hygiene. My education journey seen as professionals upon perspective is being accepted profession, inclusive and started with medicine as my stepping onto the jobsite. This and welcomed by the workers; passionate, where women and chosen field of study. By chance, applied to me as well. translating to workers looking men are making the workplace pre-med students were a part of out for themselves and each safer while inspiring those we the School of Health and Human I became a Safety and Health other. This is the basis for the protect to join in our pursuits. Services, which also included Program Manager after 20 Voluntary Protection Program. individuals choosing a career in years of working in the field. I Stacy Thursby has 30 Occupational Safety and Health. had men and women working Future for Women years of experience I was approached by professors for me with safety and health in Safety—Telework in Environmental, who convinced me to change my professionals both in the and Talents Safety, and Health career to Safety and Health for office and the field. I had the with emphasis in Occupational the protection of our nation’s opportunity to mentor and teach The pandemic has changed and Construction Safety, workers. It was an emerging the new female professionals the way we work and support Environmental Permitting, Nuclear field with very few women. I was what I learned and how to the workers who we are Clean-up and Remediation, and usually the only female in my navigate the opinions and bias committed to protect. Meetings Mining and Tunneling Operations classes, which was both exciting that still existed. I worked with are conducted virtually where working with the Department and a learning experience that I six very talented and intelligent individuals are identified as a of Energy and private industry. carried with me to the workplace. women just coming out of name as opposed to a gender. Specialty areas include VPP, Safety Products are evaluated based Systems, Industrial Hygiene, and Occupational Medical Reporting. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 7

By OSHA Safe + Sound Campaign Safe + Sound Week 2022 Show your Take a Step in the leadership, worker participation, August that recognizes the commitment Right Direction and a systematic approach to successes of workplace safety to safety and finding and fixing hazards. and health programs and offers health by Every year, more than 3.6 information and ideas on how participating million workers suffer a serious Safe + Sound aims to help to keep America’s workers in the fifth job-related injury or illness. businesses improve their safety safe. In 2021, 5,306 businesses annual Safe + Safe + Sound was created in performance. No matter where from 50 states, 5 territories, Sound Week. 2017 to raise awareness of businesses are in their safety and 75 countries participated the importance of workplace and health journey, they can in Safe + Sound Week, a 54% safety and to reduce workplace always take a step in the right increase from the prior year. injuries and illnesses in all direction. Safety and health Additionally, 3.2 million organizations, no matter the programs are invaluable in workers were reached! size or industry. Safe + Sound is increasing productivity and supported by seven Organizers, enhancing overall business Be part of the growing trend. including VPPPA, along with operations and preventing Show your commitment to safety many individual businesses and workplace injuries and illnesses and health by participating in the over 228 partners from various so after every shift workers can fifth annual Safe + Sound Week. trade, labor, and professional return home to their families This year’s Safe + Sound Week groups. Safe + Sound is rooted in safe and sound. will take place from August 15– the belief that every workplace 21, 2022. Registration opens on in America should have a Become Part of the Safe + Sound Week website safety and health program Something Great in July. Visit the Safe + Sound that incorporates the three Week website (www.osha.gov/ core elements: management Safe + Sound Week is a safeandsoundweek) for more nationwide event held each 8 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

MANAGEMENT LEADERSHIP information on how regularly. In 2021, over 94,000 to participate. We look forward participants regularly received Communicate Your Commitment to a Safety and Health Program to learning how your safety and health messages innovative efforts to be safe through the newsletter. Step 1. Step 2. and sound at work have Write a safety and health policy improved your workplace. Safe + Sound has many free Build your case for a safety resources to help businesses and health program Join Safe + Sound develop their safety and health program. For example, Safety and health programs are a proven way to prevent To Do Safe + Sound’s monthly one of the most downloaded workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths. For the program to be Form a small team of “safety newsletter, Safe and Sound resources in 2021 was the e˜ective, everyone in your business should understand why champions”—people who can At Work, provides ongoing Build Your Case For a Safety and improving safety and health is important. help you form your safety and communications that give Health Program management How can you build this understanding throughout your health program and drive change insight on how businesses can leadership worksheet, which business? Begin by choosing a few people (or one person if you in your business. develop or maintain their safety helps businesses identify their are a small business) to help you. You will work with this team to Assess the reasons your business and health program. These motivations for improving build your case for a safety and health program and carry the needs a safety and health communications offer resources safety and health in their message to everyone else. They should be people who can help program. you can adapt for your workplace workplace so they can use you drive change within the business. Consider choosing people, or business mode that are added them to help drive change. both workers and managers, who represent di˜erent areas of the Team members business, shifts, and facilities. You want to learn about motivations for improving safety at every level. Don’t miss out on receiving this valuable information. Sign up to receive Why should the business, or any person in your business, use the newsletter by joining our mailing list at https://www.osha.gov/ their time, energy, and resources to improve safety and safeandsound. Follow Safe + Sound activities and share content on health? Meet with your team to assess the reasons your business social media using #SafeAndSoundAtWork. Questions? Email us at needs a safety and health program. If your business is very small, [email protected]. consider including everyone in this activity. Use the table on the next page to consider motivations you and your business have for improving safety and health. Add any to the list you think should be included under “Other.” Then rank them in order of importance to your business, with 1 being the most important, 2 the next most important, etc. Note whether you have any examples or data to support your ranking. For example, if you give a high rank to “Lower our workers’ compensation and other costs from injuries and illnesses,” note what costs, or increased costs, support that ranking. Di˜erent people will likely rank motivations di˜erently. That’s only natural. In fact, this range of opinion will help you plan for change and better communicate in ways that reach everyone. www.osha.gov/safeandsound The best teams COMMUNICATE… so do the best GAS DETECTORS With the Ventis® Pro5 from Industrial Scientific, Mike’s teammates will know he’s entered a high H2S environment, so they can respond faster with more information—when every second counts. See it in action at VPPPA Safety + Symposium vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 9

By Doug Parker, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health 10 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

F ifty-two years ago, Shortly after the turn of the the impacts of the climate crisis As OSHA wraps up a new paradigm new century, the response and and dangers of working in heat. its first 50 years, at emerged for America’s recovery efforts following the OSHA has taken steps to deal the core of its work workplaces. The 9/11 terrorist attacks shaped with rising heat illnesses and is the fundamental Occupational Safety and Health how OSHA and the federal fatalities by implementing a right for all workers Act of 1970 was passed, making government responded to heat enforcement initiative to be protected way for the creation of the subsequent disasters or events. in 2021. This initiative is in on the job and Occupational Safety and Health The 2000s saw new standards addition to OSHA’s ongoing empowered to Administration (OSHA) in to protect construction heat illness campaign. OSHA speak up about 1971. From that point on, a safe workers in steel erection also has plans to issue a national unsafe conditions. workplace was the right of every and prevent exposure to emphasis program on heat. worker. Since its creation, OSHA hexavalent chromium. management programs with has helped transform workplaces Meaningful engagement strong worker participation. in ways that have significantly In its fifth decade, OSHA with underserved communities Compliance is a good starting reduced occupational fatalities, issued standards for silica is another key priority of the point, but every workplace injuries, and illnesses. dust, beryllium, and confined administration. All workers—no can better protect workers by In its initial decade, OSHA spaces, and the classification matter their gender or age, the making health and safety a issued the first federal workplace and labeling of work-related color of their skin, the language core value. health and safety standards. The chemicals. The agency also they speak, or their citizenship agency’s first standard provided launched several initiatives status—has the right to be From issuing and enforcing worker protections from to address serious workplace healthy and safe at their job. workplace health and safety asbestos, followed by health issues, including fall OSHA is committed to making standards to extensive standards for lead, carcinogens, prevention, youth safety, heat sure that every worker knows compliance assistance to help cotton dust, and construction illness, trench safety, and about their rights and has the employers keep their employees safety standards. suicide prevention. required training and protections safe, and whistleblower In its second decade, OSHA they need and deserve. Workers protections for workers who issued standards to give Since the beginning of the must also be and feel encouraged raise their voice to protect workers the right to know which COVID-19 pandemic, OSHA’s to speak up about issues without themselves and others, chemicals they may be exposed mission is as important now as fear of retaliation. workplace conditions have to and require employers to it has ever been in the agency’s improved dramatically over the provide workers and their doctors 50-year history. Workers can Another area of focus is last half century because of the with medical and exposure and are still getting sick from ensuring the agency has the efforts of OSHA and its partners. records. During the 1980s, COVID-19 and OSHA must resources and staffing necessary OSHA also created the first of continue working to protect to carry out its mission. OSHA As OSHA wraps up its first its cooperative programs—the them, even when the public has been aggressively hiring 50 years, at the core of its work Voluntary Protection Program. conversation about the virus senior leaders, compliance is the fundamental right for all OSHA’s cooperative programs may be shifting. The agency has safety and health officers, and workers to be protected on the provide businesses, labor groups, worked expeditiously to help whistleblower investigators. job and empowered to speak up and other organizations the protect workers from exposure Strong enforcement is always about unsafe conditions. The opportunity to work with the to the coronavirus, from going to be an integral part agency is focused on expanding agency to improve workplace issuing guidance documents to of the Occupational Safety outreach, building on existing health and safety. responding to complaints and and Health Act and OSHA will relationships, and developing During subsequent decades, performing investigations of use all available tools to hold new partnerships to ensure OSHA issued new standards worker exposures to COVID-19 accountable employers who that every worker has the on testing and certifying the hazards. The agency is using disregard their obligation to protections they need. safety of workplace equipment, available tools while it finalizes provide workers a safe workplace. and worker protections from a permanent Healthcare In half a century, OSHA has hazardous energy, combustible Standard and continues work on Enforcement is one made great progress toward its grain dust, trenching, and noise an infectious disease standard mechanism for achieving mission. As the agency looks hazards. New and stronger to ensure it is better prepared OSHA’s mission. The agency ahead to the next 50 years, it standards addressed falls, for the next outbreak. also relies on its cooperative will continue working hard until bloodborne pathogens and toxic relationships with employers every worker is able to go home substances. Workers in confined OSHA is also focused on and encourages them to go to their families healthy and spaces, longshoring and marine addressing work-related heat beyond compliance with safe at the end of each day. terminals, and laboratories also illness. The dangers of heat are OSHA standards. OSHA gained stronger protections. The only getting worse, particularly supports recognition for agency also introduced safety for workers of color who employers who model effective and health training at its OSHA disproportionately make up the safety and health programs Education Centers. populations of employees who and encourages them to are exposed to high levels of communicate with their peers heat. OSHA is taking aggressive the importance and benefits action to protect workers from of robust safety and health vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 11

The P 12 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

By Julian Moffatt Past, Present & Recent humanitarian crises and Future geopolitical instabilities may of ESG seem like a violent throwback to the mid-20th Century, a time when the prospect of nuclear war and global annihilation haunted humanity.The irony is that today the world has never been more serious about pursuing a sustainable future, with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) topics dominating corporate, investment, and political discourse. At this pivotal time, it is worth considering how ESG thought has evolved over the past 75 years and contemplate where it might be headed in the future. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 13

The world has 1950s programs was successful in closed with another high- never been curbing many of the negative profile industrial disaster: the more serious The dawn of the nuclear age consequences stemming 1989 Exon Valdez oil spill. This about pursuing and the ensuing Cold War from unchecked industrial event proved pivotal to the a sustainable forced humanity to consider growth during the 1950s and founding of initial ESG reporting future, with our impact on the planet 1960s. Increased scientific frameworks in the 1990s. Environmental, in a manner that had never research into human impacts Social, and previously been considered. Our on the environment provided 1990s Governance (ESG) newfound power to destroy life early warnings concerning topics dominating on earth via nuclear holocaust the potential for ozone layer Scientific research into climate corporate, encouraged introspective depletion and climate change. science and rising greenhouse investment, and thought. This period also Over-fishing of the world’s gas levels raised alarm bells political discourse. ushered in the age of plastics oceans and deforestation concerning global warming, and the rapid expansion shattered the “endless pushing this topic into the of organic (carbon-based) resource” myth, and early forefront of sustainability chemistry, which by the late images of the Earth from outer discussions. An increasing 1950s began to exact a heavy toll space had an existential impact number of organizations on the environment. on human thinking. One in began to publish corporate particular—the “Blue Marble” social responsibility (CSR) 1960s photograph—advanced the style reports, although early concept of a fragile world set efforts were heavy on graphics This is widely regarded as against the void of space. and short on facts. The decade the decade when the need for also saw the founding of early environmental protection and 1980s ESG reporting frameworks, workplace safety laws first came including the Global Reporting into sharp focus. The fallout Resource depletion, Initiative (GRI) and “ethical” from the continued economic pollution, and other investing that focused attention expansion, and unchecked negative consequences on consumer oriented Green use of chemicals to fuel this of industrialization on Investment options. EH&S growth, took an increasingly communities and the regulations continued to evolve visible toll on workers and the environment was top of mind in industrial countries with environment. While Rachel as the world grappled with increasingly significant financial Carson’s publication of Silent the need to pursue increased and reputational penalties for Spring in 1962 served as an economic development in organizations that fail to important wake-up call, the a more sustainable fashion. protect workers or willfully decade was still filled with easy- The highly influential 1987 degrade the environment. to-disseminate images that Brundtland Commission conveyed the urgency of change report anchored the term 2000s like those of DDT-weakened “Sustainable Development” eggshells breaking within raptor into the public lexicon. As Curtailing greenhouse gas nests and the 1969 Cuyahoga the non-industrialized world (GHG) emissions became an “river fire” in downtown increasingly looked to follow urgent global priority in the Cleveland. The socioeconomic in the footsteps of affluent early 2000s. Cap-and-trade climate of the 1960s meant that nations, the need to define a less and carbon tax-based GHG there was a more willing and harmful path to development management schemes were first receptive audience to receive the took on increasing urgency. introduced, the link between message that it was time to start The devastating Bhopal (Union positive financial return and ESG doing things differently. Carbide) disaster, rainforest performance was correlated, depletion, dead lakes attributed and the United Nations (UN) 1970s to “acid rain,” ozone layer holes published the Principles for caused by CFC emissions, and Responsible Investment (PRI). The 1970s saw the rapid rapidly depleting fossil fuel This framework has since proven expansion of EH&S compliance reserves kept the concept of to be a significant market driver, programs across the sustainability at the forefront attracting the attention of more industrialized world. The of public discourse. The decade than 1,500 signatory investment implementation of government institutions controlling $62 regulations and enforcement 14 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

trillion in managed assets. institutional investors exerted The Future regulatory reporting foundation The age of market-based ESG direct pressure to force changes for ESG—, CSR/Sustainability, acceleration had begun. within leading public and If the past has taught us and GRC will converge. private companies to adopt anything, it’s that it is virtually 2010s ESG principles into all facets impossible to accurately While we have already of corporate governance and predict what will happen next. come a long way, there is still This decade is characterized strategic planning. While it However, we can say with some so much more to do. Despite by the emergence of market- continues to remain a voluntary level of certainty that ESG is recent humanitarian crises and focused ESG reporting reporting initiative, investor here to stay, and organizations geopolitical instabilities, the frameworks (including the and supply chain pressure should expect it to increasingly world has proven that it can Sustainability Accounting has increasingly made ESG become a routine part of doing unite around the topic of ESG; Standards Board), as well as disclosure mandatory for business. Mandatory minimum we have never been in a better the introduction of the term many organizations. Social ESG disclosure will become the position to pursue a sustainable “ESG” into the public lexicon. equity, total worker health, norm—both in Europe and the future for humanity, assuming Although still voluntary, ESG impact on communities, and U.S.—and will carry similar we don’t trip at the finish line. pressure continues to mount environmental preservation— liability to an organization throughout this time, with with particular emphasis as financial reports currently Julian Moffatt is a Principal over 90 percent of Fortune 500 on GHG—are top of mind in have. Voluntary reporting Solutions Strategist, ESG at companies disclosing ESG/CSR/ boardrooms across the world. frameworks will continue to VelocityEHS, the global leader Sustainability reports by 2020. The race to chart a different exist, but consolidation and in cloud environment, health, path has intensified, with even standardization will help to safety (EHS) and environmental, Today the largest Oil & Gas companies shorten the list of competing social, and corporate staking out Net Zero strategies frameworks. ESG will be the governance (ESG) software. To ESG reached critical mass in for curtailing GHG emissions. macro-umbrella under which learn more about how software 2020, a year during which EHS—which today serves as the can help build a better ESG program, visit www.EHS.com. SRC © PROVEN PROCESS INSPECT | SPECIFY | BUILD | INSTALL INDUSTRIAL ROOFTOP SAFETY You’re tasked with keeping your facility OSHA compliant and your personnel safe from falls — but where do you begin? SRC Site Safe has the answer, providing a do-it-all service process that takes care of your entire fall-protection project, from the first inspection through the final installation. Check out SRC (booth #424) at the VPPPA Safety+ Symposium from August 23-25 in Washington D.C. SAFETYRAILCOMPANY.COM 888-434-2720 vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 15

HEAD- TO- TOE PPEWhere We’ve Been and Where We’re Going By Nicole Randall 16 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

W hile the head protection, eye and face resistant. The standard defines “For nearly a Occupational protection, hearing protection, two types and three classes of century, ISEA has Safety and Health hand protection, respiratory hard hats, each indicating the united the safety Act of 1970, which created the protection, protective apparel, type and extent of its protection. equipment Occupational Safety and Health high visibility products, Type I helmets provide top industry with Administration, ushered in a as well as fall protection, protection, while Type II the simple new age of workplace safety over dropped object prevention, helmets provide both top and yet vital goal 50 years ago, the International and related areas such as first lateral protection. The three of protecting Safety Equipment Association aid, emergency eyewash, and classes pertain to electrical workers.” (ISEA) and its members have shower instruments. protection: Class C (conductive) been continuously creating means no electrical protection, standards for personal protective Here’s a look at a handful of Class G (general) protects equipment (PPE) since 1933. those areas. against 2,200 volts, and Class ISEA member companies are E (electrical) protects against world leaders in the design, Head Protection: 20,000 volts. manufacture, testing, and The Hard Hat distribution of protective The typical hard hats of clothing and equipment used Bullard produced and tomorrow might not look too in factories, construction sites, manufactured the very first different from those of today, hospitals and clinics, farms, head protection device in but how they’re manufactured schools, laboratories, emergency 1919, primarily for miners. But (more automation is a response, and in the home, wearing head protection was possibility) and their specific to help protect the health and optional, left to the personal properties (such as resistance safety of people worldwide. preference of workers. to heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays) are likely to evolve. Plus, “For nearly a century, One of the companies workplace head protection ISEA has united the safety building the Hoover Dam in 1931 could adopt features already equipment industry with started requiring its workers used in other settings—such as the simple yet vital goal of to wear head protection. climbing, biking, or other kinds protecting workers,” said Tom Bullard’s production of the first of helmets—with components Votel, ISEA Chair and president aluminum hard hat for workers like chinstraps that could keep & CEO of Ergodyne. “Together, on the Golden Gate Bridge in the helmet on the worker’s head PPE manufacturers and safety 1933—where a common risk and increase lateral protection. stakeholders have advanced was falling rivets—allowed for Changes could be driven by the performance of safety wider, and industry-crossing, different head-injury trends as equipment and the standards adoption of the headgear. well as new work settings and to which it conforms. Between scenarios not yet envisioned. industry veterans who have ISEA members are the leading been in safety for decades and designers and manufacturers of Eye Protection: incoming safety professionals industrial protective helmets, Goggles, Eye Wash, and new technical experts, commonly known as hard and Portable Showers ISEA members collaborate hats, as well as helmets for to ensure safety equipment firefighters and emergency In 1880, the “eye protector,” performance standards are responders and the military. The as it was first called, was updated, relevant, and, most modern hard hat is no longer considered revolutionary. Two importantly, effective.” made from canvas and leather, layers of semi-opaque cloth but rather from thermoplastics were used to protect firemen The easiest way to see how or other materials that are non- from bright lights. Around the the safety equipment industry conductive to electricity. The turn of the century, workers in has evolved over those decades hard hat consists of an outer other industries likewise began is to picture the entire body of a shell, suspension to absorb to see the benefit of shielding worker, from head to toe. Safety energy within the shell, crown their eyes from bright lights. solutions have been developed straps, protective padding, and It wasn’t until 1909 that these to address workers’ most a harness to secure the helmet goggles were adapted to include vulnerable exposures to risk. to the wearer. a form of safety glass. In fact, ISEA has internal Standards for hard hats have Eye safety didn’t stop at groups that focus on keeping evolved. Under ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, goggles, though. As workplaces standards updated for the which was updated in 2014, they and industries evolved, so products that address those must resist penetration from did ANSI/ISEA standards. various exposures, including falling or stationary objects, For example, to combat absorb shock from an impact, and be water- and burn- vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 17

“With evolutions contamination, whether that ISEA and its members developed weight exposure (TWA) below in artificial be chemical or otherwise, the ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 standard 85 dBA. Workers exposed for intelligence, emergency eyewash stations and for tethering and transporting that duration to 100+ dBA or robotics, showers were adopted in 1981. tools and equipment. to single impulses of 140+ dBA connectivity, and noise should be required to beyond, safety Current standards detail Hearing Protection: wear both earplugs and can be more numerous ways to shield Earplugs and Earmuffs earmuffs together for double automated and the eyes. ISEA manufacturer hearing protection. controlled, leaving members, such as Hughes Safety Earplugs were first patented in less room for error as well as Safety Optical Service, 1864, while the first ear-canal Face and Breathing and injury.” have taken up the mantle of caps came another 20 years later Protection: Face Masks innovation and worked to make to protect soldiers and sailors and Respirators needed adjustments to standard from hearing loss or damage workplace eyewear. Goggles in war. At the time, these plugs Long before the N95 respirator now include prescription lenses, came with an adjustable strap. became an icon of the COVID-19 protection from UV rays, and It wasn’t until World War II that pandemic in early 2020, workers compatibility with helmets and the V-51R model earplugs came prior to 1900 had little-to-no headgear. Standards detail all of to include leather flaps over the protection from dust and harmful these goggle adjustments as well ears, essentially functioning as particles. Jury-rigged solutions as a tighter fit to combat fogging, first-generation earmuffs. By like placing a wet cloth over the addition of foam or padding the mid-20th century, earmuffs the mouth were ineffective and for comfort, and meeting quality used by workers in various impractical. World War I saw the assurance benchmarks such as high-noise workplaces (think development and use of various high-impact tests. airport runways and certain gas masks to reduce deaths and manufacturing) appeared with injuries from poisonous-gas Safety at Heights: different designs to enhance attacks on European battlefields, Dropped Objects the wearer’s comfort, such as with further development of the Prevention fluid-filled, glass-down, and technology in World War II. The foam cushions. Conformable U.S. Bureau of Mines created For decades companies, foam earplugs came along in standards for oxygen breathing organizations, and government the 1970s. Nonlinear electronic apparatus and gas mask agencies have worked to systems were incorporated into respirators in 1919, followed prevent workers from falling earmuffs in the 1980s. by standards for hose-mask while on the job. However, respirators in 1927, which it there is another component of ISEA launched its Listen Today expanded in 1937, “to include a Safety at Heights that is more to Hear Tomorrow campaign in variety of supplied-air respirators recently getting the attention it 2018 because at least 40 million including Type CE abrasive deserves—dropped objects. workers in the U.S. are exposed blasting respirator,” according to to high noise levels on the job, the Centers for Disease Control & This is not a recent issue. As in work settings that include Prevention (CDC). Then, in 1972, noted, the primary reason for construction, manufacturing, ISEA Member 3M introduced the the development of the hard service and government. Noise first NIOSH-approved disposable hat in the early 20th century exposure has a number of health filtering face-piece respirator. was dropping rivets. And, in effects, including stress, chronic 1980, the most serious nuclear fatigue, hearing loss, tinnitus, Fast-forwarding to the late threat in the history of the even high blood pressure 20th century, research and U.S. came from a single nine- and digestive disorders. Ear development had evolved to pound wrench socket. Dropped protection is recommended for address various dust/fume/ by an airman performing noise levels of 85 decibels (dB) mist hazards and levels of maintenance on a missile, the or above. For every 3 dB above toxicity in a broader array socket fell 70 feet, ripping a hole 85 dB, the National Institute for of workplace settings, from in a fuel tank and leading to an Occupational Safety (NIOSH) industrial to healthcare. explosion that forced a nine- recommends cutting the megaton warhead out of the permissible exposure time in The September 11, 2001, ground. While safety features half. NIOSH recommends that terrorist attacks, and first prevented radioactive spillage, the duration of noise exposure responders’ rescue and recovery the explosion killed one worker be considered, as well, calling efforts at the attack sites, and injured 20 more. for employers to provide exposed the need for even hearing protection at no cost better respiratory protection as Recognizing the pressing need to keep workers’ 8-hour total well as other types of personal for formal guidelines within the protective equipment (PPE). category of Objects at Heights, 18 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

Earlier that year, NIOSH had After OSHA reported that evolution to ensure the safety only the efficiency with which created a new division—the 70.9% of hand and arm injuries of even more employees around companies can tackle work National Personal Protective could have been prevented with the globe. New methods of tasks, but also provides an extra Technology Laboratory personal protective equipment, data collection have allowed level of security for employees (NPPTL)—to further research specifically safety gloves— for a more connected approach as they perform their jobs. ISEA PPE and personal protective yet 70% of workers were not to safety culture. Real- will explore the adoption of technologies (PPT), as well as to wearing hand protection, and time visibility and reports new, technology-led standards develop guidance, information, of those who did, 30% didn’t of workers’ conditions can that keep worker privacy and and responses to requests wear the right kind of glove now provide employers and employee safety top of mind. for workplace health-hazard for the task—ISEA partnered administrators a more detailed evaluations. Most recently, ISEA in 2019–2020 with VPPPA picture of workplace conditions “The future of PPE is offered insights and suggestions and the National Waste & by combining data from dynamic and exciting,” from the safety equipment Recycling Association (NWRA) hardware, software, and even said Votel. “As technology industry when the Biden on a #SafeHands awareness and the cloud. continues to advance, so does Administration announced its education campaign. A white safety. With evolutions in desire to provide face protection paper and other information are The connectivity between artificial intelligence, robotics, for adults and children. available on the hand-protection these three data systems in a connectivity, and beyond, safety resources page of ISEA’s website: workplace offers information can be more automated and Hand Protection: Gloves https://safetyequipment.org/ that wouldn’t otherwise be controlled, leaving less room for safe-hands-at-work. easily accessible. Employers error and injury.” Hand protection is as old as and workers can access the the sport of boxing. But as High-Visibility Apparel status of equipment, remotely Nicole Randall is Director, industries have evolved, and monitor site safety, access Marketing & External Affairs, at the workplace responsibilities The origins of high-visibility data logs, and more. This International Safety Equipment have changed, hand protection apparel began in the 1930s when added visibility improves not Association in Arlington, Virginia. has become about more than brothers Bob and Joe Switzer protection from impact. invented the first fluorescent From the metal mesh used paint, which they marketed as by medieval knights to the “Day-Glo.” The US government seamless knit gloves of took notice and began using it to manufacturers in the 1980s, increase soldiers’ visibility and materials have constantly been reduce friendly fire casualties updated and adapted to best in World War II. Today, in high- serve the workforce. traffic areas and those with low visibility (i.e., inclement In 2019, ISEA announced weather), hi-vis clothing could a new standard for industrial mean the difference between gloves aimed at protecting life and death of workers. workers from hand-impact injuries: ANSI/ISEA 138-2019, There are now clearly defined American National Standard for standards with which high- Performance and Classification visibility PPE must comply. The for Impact Resistant Hand ANSI/ISEA 107 standard was Protection. That standard built first developed and released upon the widely used ANSI/ISEA in 1999. It quickly gained 105-2016, American National ubiquitous influence and was Standard for Hand Protection deemed the most effective Classification, which by then protective method with which to had also evolved, classifying ensure worker conspicuity. The nine levels of protection, fifth edition (ANSI/ISEA 107- defined as A1 through A9: 2020) includes key updates and innovations such as criteria for • Levels A1, A2, A3 offer the use of single-use disposable coveralls and measuring protection against scrapes. nighttime luminance. • Levels A4, A5, A6 offer Looking Ahead protection against injuries The next 50 years of PPE will for which stitches would see continued innovation and be required. • Levels A7, A8, A9 offer protection against the most serious injuries. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 19

Worker Safety New Initiatives to Address an Old Problem By Adele L. Abrams, Esq., M ost employers do a American lives (many of temporary worker utilization. ASP, CMSP reasonably good job whom were essential workers) But even before the pandemic, a training and protecting exacerbated what had already shift to “just in time” production President, Law Office of their workers from the various been hiring challenges for and delivery created incentive to Adele L. Abrams PC occupational safety and health employers. While initially, use reduce the core number of direct hazards associated with their of “temps” fell to a 10-year low employees and to “fill in” with www.safety-law.com assigned tasks specifically, and of 2 million workers in April temporary workers as needed with the work environment in 2020 due to the mass closures to meet customer or client general, as any worker may be of businesses, it rebounded, demands, and brought scrutiny to jeopardized by tasks performed and demand for temporary the safety and health of workers by others unsafely. But when it workers in the United States was involved in the “gig economy.” comes to the occupational safety expected to increase 14.4% on a and health onboarding and seasonally adjusted basis for the Use of temporary workers training of temporary workers, 2021 fourth quarter. can save employers money in too often these short-term terms of not having to offer workers are left with disparate The “Great Resignation” and mandatory benefits, make FICA protections and are injured associated staffing challenges— contributions, or offer health more frequently. especially when filling entry benefits under the Affordable level, lower-wage positions that Care Act. Use of temporary The COVID-19 pandemic, cannot be performed remotely— workers also may lower the with the loss of a million resulted in a resurgence of number of employees covered 20 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

by unemployment insurance OSHA recognizes that temporary workers and other As OSHA puts and workers’ compensation temporary workers are at vulnerable populations. it: “Whether insurance, as well as for an elevated risk of injury or temporary or triggering application of civil death and has made their This determination of when to permanent, all rights laws. However, injured protection a priority in treat a host employer and staffing workers always temporary workers are not the Biden Administration, agency as “joint employers” have a right to a typically limited to a workers’ building on initiatives started has been complicated of late safe and healthy compensation “exclusive under President Obama to by shifting definitions issued workplace.” remedy”—although they may protect vulnerable workers. under rules promulgated by be covered by the staffing See https://www.osha.gov/ the U.S. Department of Labor. agency’s insurance, and the temporaryworkers. The Biden Administration’s host employer may have an complete rescission of the indemnification agreement. Historically, OSHA has Trump Administration’s 2020 taken the position that a “joint employer” rule on July More often, a workplace staffing agency (or “temporary 26, 2021, and a March 2022 illness or injury suffered by a agency”) and its client (the decision by the U.S. Court of temporary worker lands the “host employer”) are joint Appeals, 2d Circuit (Feldner v. host employer in civil court employers and must work U.S. Tennis Association, involving defending a wrongful death or together to ensure that all Plaintiff Feldner’s assignment personal injury action. OSHA requirements under the as a temporary security guard citations against the host Occupational Safety & Health at the U.S. Open), point to employer can be introduced Act and its implementing possible future directions. The as proof of negligence per se in regulations are satisfied. At federal appeals court noted many states. Supervisors may the March 2022 meeting of in its ruling, which allowed also face personal tort liability the America Bar Association’s temporary worker Feldman’s related to temporary workers, if Occupational Safety & Health Title VII claim to proceed against a temporary worker is injured or section, OSHA representatives the host employer: “The joint killed as the result of negligent announced more initiatives employer doctrine . . . comes training or supervision. targeting protection of into play where ‘an employee, vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 21

OSHA has taken formally employed by one In enforcement activities, onsite engaged in potentially the position entity is assigned to work in OSHA will consider a variety of hazardous activities, they that a staffing circumstances that the employee factors, including the workplace will be monitored by OSHA agency (or is at the same time constructively conditions, any contractual terms and questioned as to their “temporary employed by another entity.’” in place, who is supervising the training and use of personal agency”) temporary work crew (someone protective equipment. Training and its client While the courts, the U.S. sent by the agency, or one of of temporary workers must (the “host Department of Labor, and the host’s supervisors), and be provided in a language and employer”) are National Labor Relations Board who has and hasn’t provided vocabulary they understand, joint employers work through yet another appropriate training within their and this should be considered and must work iteration of joint employer ability. This joint coordination in advance, where the host together to policy, OSHA retains broad requires effective communication employer’s supervisors or ensure that all enforcement authority, via between both entities: host and trainers cannot speak the requirements its multi-employer worksite staffing agency. language of the proposed under the doctrine to address both entities temporary worker crew. Occupational when things go wrong. Under It is also critical that proper Safety & Health this doctrine, an employer can procedures are followed for the Now is the time to check your Act and its be cited as the “controlling” timely reporting of injuries, temporary worker utilization implementing employer, the “creating” illnesses, and fatalities by against recommended practices regulations are employer, the “exposing” the proper entity, as well as for coordination between the satisfied. employer, and the “correcting” accurate and timely entry of host employer and staffing employer. Typically, the host such events on the OSHA logs agencies, to better ensure safety employer is deemed to be the of the appropriate employer. for all workers: “controlling” entity because When OSHA does triage on 1. Prior to entering a contract they have the ability to police whether to send an inspector to the situation, to evict an unsafe a fatal or serious injury event, with a staffing agency, contractor or temporary one of the triggers is having a jointly review all worksites workers who refuse to follow temporary worker involved as where the temps might be safety rules or wear provided the accident victim. Failure to sent, the task assignments PPE. The host employer can also report a temporary worker’s and job hazard analysis be cited, in the alternative, for fatality within 8 hours, or an in- (or SOPs) to identify and failing to correct the violative patient hospitalization, eye loss, eliminate potential safety condition—because they or amputation within 24 hours, and health hazards. This also usually control the worksite and can result in both employers helps both entities identify tools/equipment furnished to being fined a minimum what training and personal temporary workers, as well as of $5,000. Confusion over protective equipment (PPE) providing site-specific training. responsibility is no excuse. the worker will need (and which entity will provide it), The staffing agency, in turn, While OSHA’s National including whether medical can be cited as the “creating” Emphasis Program inspections evaluation and fit testing for employer (whose worker and Site Specific Targeting a respirator is required, and created the violative condition) based programmed inspections helps ensure that workers or the “exposing” employer do not apply to employers who are not dispatched to the (because the temporary worker have been designated as VPP site who are not physically was exposed to a hazard created participants, if a temporary capable of performing all by others at the worksite). The worker is the subject of a essential job functions. multi-employer citation power severe injury report, or a temp 2. Assign OSHA responsibilities has been affirmed by all U.S. makes a hazard or retaliation to the appropriate employer Courts of Appeal at this point, complaint to OSHA, those and define the scope of work and the maximum penalty per incidents can bring an inspector in the contract. The extent of citation increased to $145,027 to the worksite to investigate, the responsibilities will vary per exposed employee as of regardless of the host depending on workplace January 15, 2022. employer’s VPP status. conditions and what the temporary worker will be OSHA views safety and health When OSHA shows up and doing. Someone operating responsibilities as overlapping. there are temporary workers 22 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

91% of 2021 attendees said they would recommend Safety+ to peers in their field REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN LET’S REUNITE IN OUR NATION’S CAPITAL Join us in-person at Safety+ for a symposium Visit: vpppa.org that creates a community unlike any other! #SafetyPlus2022 + Earn industry CEUs + 90+ workshops + Direct access to key OSHA representatives + More than 200 exhibitors + Expand your safety network August 23–25, 2022 Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington, DC

power tools or working review the division of on the host employer’s worksite practices and with forklifts will require responsibilities regularly, OSHA 300/301 logs. If the task procedures. Training significantly more training especially if injuries are temporary agency sends a must also cover the use and and monitoring than a impacting temporary crew of workers along with maintenance of personal temporary receptionist or workers, or caused by their a more highly compensated protective equipment that mailroom clerk. Sometimes unsafe activities. crew chief, then generally the temporary worker may the staffing agency is better 3. Injury and illness their injuries would go on require, including hearing suited to ensure compliance, recordkeeping and reporting the staffing agency logs, protection, eye protection, but generally OSHA will hold must be done according to rather than the host’s logs. and respiratory protection. the host employer primarily federal OSHA requirements One of the biggest potential responsible for compliance in 29 CFR Part 1904 (or the OSHA considers “day- gaps involves OSHA’s hazard as they will be assumed to relevant State OSHA rules, to-day supervision” as communication standard, have greater knowledge of if more stringent) and a the entity that controls and host employers must the regulations relevant to temporary worker’s death the means and manner of ensure that temporary their industry. or severe injury must be the temporary employees’ workers are trained on the reported timely. Generally, work. OSHA specifically says chemical hazards and PPE It is also critical to if the host employer is that the employer cannot requirements for the products properly document the providing direct supervision discharge or contract away they will use on the job, and assigned responsibilities to the temporary worker, responsibilities (including how to gain access to Safety in the contract or other the temp’s injury goes recordkeeping) that Data Sheets, especially if they worksite documents, and pertain to them under are kept on a computer that is the law. The supervising password-protected. Stream>Track Learning System employer must also have a 5. OSHA advises staffing Video Streaming Platforms method of reporting agencies to maintain contact Digital Media Downloads injuries/illnesses free from with workers, and do Microlearnings retaliation and must train spot visits where possible SCORM Courses workers on the reporting (e.g., when distributing Custom Production Services method and on their paychecks) to verify that the whistleblower protections. host employer is fulfilling Come visit us 4. Training is critical for its responsibilities for a safe at the Safety+ Symposium temporary workers, and and healthful workplace. new worker/new project at Booth #606! orientation requires both Finally, temporary workers site-specific and task- are also covered under OSHA’s APSafetyTraining.com 800-311-1143 specific training in a whistleblower protections, language and vocabulary and if they are removed from that the workers can a worksite by the host because understand. Keep in mind they expressed a concern about that some temp workers may COVID-19 transmission or other also be illiterate and unable safety issues, this could be viewed to comprehend written as a violation of their rights and instructional materials, in the host can be prosecuted even which case the information though the worker is not directly will need to be communicated employed by them. If the staffing in another format. agency refuses to reassign the worker based on their protected OSHA views worker safety activity, the agency can be training as a shared prosecuted as well. responsibility between the host employer and the As OSHA puts it: “Whether staffing agency, where the temporary or permanent, all agency provides generic workers always have a right to a training, and the host does safe and healthy workplace.” a deeper dive into specific 24 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

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The vpppa.org Future is Hotter: How to Protect Workers from By: Beth Angus, MPH, CIH 26 Leader—Spring 2022

ast year was the fourth considered. Health conditions • PPE: While many types of For more on heat safety, warmest year on record1. such as high blood pressure or make sure to check Not to mention that the diabetes, and some medications PPE can increase the risk out the next issue of ten warmest years in make workers less tolerant of of heat stress, in extreme the Leader magazine, history have all been since heat. Employers and workers situations, thermally 1998 (according to the National should readily recognize early conditioned clothes such as available this summer. Oceanic and Atmospheric signs of heat stress like: cooling vests can be used. Administration). Even cooler It’s critical to states routinely see heat index • An increased heart rate As employers identify risk think about rising days over 80°F, which is the • Profuse sweating factors in their workplaces, they temperatures, threshold for heat stress- • An increase in body should consider developing a especially as related inspections under a new Heat Illness Prevention Plan, you plan future OSHA initiative announced in temperature which outlines procedures to compliance with September 20212. protect employees from heat- OSHA’s Advance It’s critical to think about Prevention and Control related illnesses and injuries. Notice of Proposed rising temperatures especially Elements to consider while Rulemaking on as you plan future compliance Like most other risks, we can writing the plan are: heat injury and with OSHA’s Advance Notice of address heat using the hierarchy illness prevention. Proposed Rulemaking on heat of controls: • How will the employer injury and illness prevention. This proposed rulemaking • Elimination/Substitution: measure heat stress and is OSHA’s first step toward determine if conditions establishing a formal heat stress Can the work be done in a are hazardous? standard and is in response to cooler area or during the more than 31,000 work-related coolest parts of the day (early • How will conditions be heat injuries and illnesses over morning, late evening, or the last 30 years, including even overnight)? Can the monitored throughout nearly 1,000 workplace deaths3. most physically demanding the workday? It’s no question that the future tasks be rescheduled? is looking hotter, so how can • How will unacclimatized safety professionals prepare? • Engineering: For indoor workers develop heat Recognition and workplaces, using local tolerance? Planning exhaust ventilation and cooling fans in areas with • In which situations is it While primarily outdoor the most heat production, industries, such as agriculture, insulating hot surfaces, appropriate to use first aid or construction, and landscaping, and allowing breaks in to call for medical assistance? have readily recognizable heat- air-conditioned areas are related injury and illness risks, all examples of potential • What controls will be used to the risk can also be present at engineering controls. indoor worksites. Sources of For outdoor workplaces, reduce heat stress? heat, such as ovens or kilns, can consider using misting fans, be readily recognized, but other using reflective shields • What training will be provided? risk factors are easily overlooked. to redirect sunlight, and How strenuous is the labor for providing shade cover (such Heat stress and heat- some employees? Could personal as portable canopies). related illnesses and injuries protective equipment create an can be prevented, even as additional risk? Are there specific • Work Practices: Modify temperatures rise in the future. activities, such as spill response, It’s up to employers to be that could change an employee’s work schedules for workers proactive about training, heat risk factors? who are not acclimatized and prevention plan development, require breaks in a cooler and OSHA compliance. The Employees’ personal (shaded or air-conditioned) future is bright (and hot)—let’s risk factors should also be area. Provide water or make sure all workers get home electrolyte-containing fluids, at the end of the day. and encourage workers to drink them frequently. Train Beth Angus, MPH, CIH, employees to recognize signs is an industrial hygiene of heat stress in themselves consultant with Safex, and others, and to provide a health, safety and appropriate first aid. environmental consulting firm in Columbus, Ohio. Her specialties include developing industrial sampling plans, exposure monitoring for chemical and physical hazards and ventilation system assessments. 1 https://www.noaa.gov/news/us-saw-its-4th-warmest-year-on-record-fueled-by-record-warm-december 2 https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/national/09202021 3 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2021, September 1). 43 work-related deaths due to environmental heat exposure in 2019. The Economics Daily. https:// www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2021/43-work-related-deaths-due-to-environmental-heat-exposure-in-2019.htm. (BLS, September 1, 2021) vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 27

The Evolution of Safety Certifications— 100 Years in the Making Co-Authors: S afety. 100 years ago. vegetables in an attempt to put Leah Beckworth, CSP, STSC, MS, Safety. Now. The food on the table. UCOR Industrial Safety Manager legacy of occupational Stephanie Miller, CSP, CIH, STS, MS, safety is definitely Fast forward. UCOR Safety Systems Integration Manager a tale to be told. Decades ago, 2022. the “safety guy” was often the The career field of 28 Leader—Spring 2022 person who had gotten hurt occupational safety and on the job and was unable to health is complex, diverse, “do what he used to do.” It is advanced, and technical. The ironic in some ways to have the most recent American Society safety person missing a limb or of Safety Professional’s survey an eye. In fact, one well known reflected this advancement and loved retired safety trainer of the profession when over in the industry was involved 56,000 Safety, Health, and in a mining accident about 50 Environmental professionals years ago and as a direct result reported an average annual became “the safety guy.” He salary of $97,000. Almost was just lucky he didn’t lose three in four people had at his job, though the accident least one Board of Certified was no fault of his own. While Safety Professionals (BCSP) in recovery, his wife grew certification, and approximately one in four had multiple vpppa.org

certifications, with the most that is ever-evolving. Each AN INTERVIEW WITH common one being the Certified certification that is acquired JIMMY HUGHES, CSP Safety Professional (CSP). represents a person dedicated enough to the profession to What made you want to get into safety? Statistics such as these invest their time, money, are simply representative efforts, and heart to better I was initially hired to work as a laborer at the DOE numbers; let’s dig into what is protect the greatest global environmental cleanup contract in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. behind the data. The top tier asset-people. When the contract switched prime contractors to UCOR, certifications—such as the there was an all-hands meeting where UCOR made it clear CSP, the Certified Industrial The good news is that they were an employee-first company that supported Hygienist (CIH), and the organizationally, companies professional development. I had always admired the way Certified Health Physicist are aligning with this paradigm safety professionals bridge the gap between the salaried (CHP) require college degrees, shift. More and more, they workforce and the union labor in an environment where experience, and an unwavering are recognizing the value that every day presents new, complex challenges that must be commitment to upholding the safety professionals bring to the solved. I worked with an excellent safety professional who highest level of ethics. Indeed, table as influencers of change took time to explain the importance of the position to me. I we have come a long way from and organizational leaders. became laser-focused on my goal. appointing the injured as the What some companies are “safety guy”—though the still learning is that they have How did you get there? fact cannot be negated that an opportunity to maximize these individuals created the that value by supporting I realized early on that safety is a technical field where foundation for a profession the development of their certifications and degrees matter. The weekend after the all- hands meeting, I enrolled as a full-time student to complete vpppa.org my bachelor’s degree. After that, I decided to complete my master’s degree and obtained my CSP. I did all this while working full time. UCOR recognized my achievements and hired me as a Safety Specialist. Since then, I have been promoted several times, and am currently a Safety and Health Operations Manager, leading approximately 50 safety and health professionals. I observe the results of the influence I have had and am proud to be able to say, “I helped achieve that, and everyone went home as good as, or better than, when they got here.” It is rewarding. What do you see in the future of ESH? In the future, I see ESH becoming less of a standalone support division and becoming even more integrated. Being a safety professional means you are part Project Manager, Project Controls, Detective, Analyst, and Counselor. As safety performance and production demands continue to increase, I see businesses realizing the value of cohesion between safety and operations. Safety professionals constantly have to evolve as technology advances, corporate climates change, business priorities are altered, and new hazards are found. Safety professionals are perfectly positioned to become very effective organizational leaders and managers. Leader—Spring 2022 29

30 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

safety professionals. When certifications and growth for Overall, UCOR employs development partnership can organizations and managers themselves after witnessing the approximately eighty people lead to exponential returns for make a choice to invest in the effects of someone else in the with professional-level the individual and the company. growth of their employees, it organization doing so first. safety certifications. All in all, (See interview on page 29.) forges a greater level of mutual when supported by peers and loyalty between the individual During 2021, despite many management, the benefits of Safety. 100 years from now. and the organization. As a distractions such as pandemic certification gain momentum, What will it be? What tales will result, safety professionals not management, certification become more far reaching, and those yet to come tell about only develop a stronger desire to attainment took off like the organization sees a greater us? While the answers to those contribute to the success of the wildfire at United Cleanup return on the investment they questions cannot truly be known, organization that is supporting Oak Ridge (UCOR). The have made. The outcome is we must continue to pave the them, but they also elevate organization instituted an improved overall sustainability way by elevating the profession their technical and managerial accountability partner program for the individual safety and never settling for status quo. competencies. What do those where certified individuals professionals, the workforce, Organizationally, we must invest successes and contributions were matched up with those and the organization as a whole. in safety professionals and view look like after obtaining seeking certifications to act them with the same significance certifications and establishing a as a resource, encourager, At UCOR we not only encourage that we do operations and pathway of growth? They appear and source of accountability. our professionals to grow and production. Individually, we when safety professionals apply This resulted in four pursue certifications, we lay out must partner with our safety their skills to, and get buy in individuals obtaining their career pathways to assist them professionals in a way that from, operations, which leads CSPs, five obtaining their with planning their development enables them to manage their to teaming and safety culture Associate Safety Professional and their future. We partner environment, create their shifts. They show up through certification, two obtaining with our professionals to chart a own luck, and support their increases in technical excellence their Occupational Health and course for their career, a course organization’s excellence and thereby raising the standard Safety Technician certification, that identifies professional goals sustainability. of what can be achieved by the and thirty-six members of and certifications, experiences to team. They come in the form of the workforce obtaining their target, and soft skills to develop. For more information related to coworkers and peers exploring Safety Trained Supervisor Jimmy Hughes, CSP, is a great this article please email Construction certification. example of how this supportive [email protected] or [email protected]. ® • Keeps extension ladders from Ladder falls – slipping on slick surfaces such as 2nd leading cause of composite decking work-related • Unique design of foam creates tiny injur ie s! * suction cups that grip the surface, even when wet * https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ nioshtic-2/20034690.html • Light weight for easy use, weighs less than 6 pounds Working Concepts, Inc. • Works on smooth surfaces, plastic, 888-456-3372 • www.softknees.com • [email protected] wood, concrete, etc., even when wet Patent Pending • Prevents marring and scratches to deck caused by ladder feet • Attaches to the bottom ladder rung, with adjustable strap, for easy movement of ladder along wall • Fits most extension ladders, up to 21” wide • Replaceable self-adhesive foam pad vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 31

What is the function of a professional in Occupational Health and Safety? Someone in this job is a major contributor to managing risk for that entity. Simply put, they are the specialist at looking at what is going on, trying to anticipate all of the things which could go wrong, and then using a set of skills and tools to figure out ways to prevent bad outcomes. If something has gone wrong already, they are responsible for abating and correcting the problem. The field has always had to adapt to the technologies at hand. By Brenda Kay Wiederkehr, CSC vpppa.org Owner of Access Compliance 32 Leader—Spring 2022

few hundred years The safety professional field was Sound scary? In the 1960s, look around and see what you ago, safety was a born and blossomed. people predicted that all jobs can feel inspired about. simpler endeavor. The would disappear. In fact, millions technologies have The tides are shifting once of jobs were subsequently added. I have been in the advanced over the years, and again. The U.S. has seen the loss In the realm of safety, it will take safety field for what safety and health initiatives have of its manufacturing powerhouse shifts in expertise. What will seems like my entire had to advance along with them. status, and jobs have shifted it take to keep a fleet of self- life. Growing up in a In the process, old hazards and to service organizations. Major operating air taxis safe? How small farming town in the Midwest, risks have fallen away while new employers are healthcare, will we protect the environment? where injuries or death affected ones have emerged. education, government, and The interface between man and the whole community, I was aware Job titles have come and gone. retail. Information technologies intelligent devices will require at a young age the dangers faced In the 1960s, armies of typists jobs are surely not a high hazard greater technical skills. in the working world. disappeared with the advent of occupation. The prior success in After completing high school, I photocopiers, and the number the health and safety profession Safety professionals will served in the United States Army of bookkeepers evaporated, in scaling back the explosive continue to exist, but the tasks for four years, United States Army succumbing to electronic data growth of worker injury costs may require more training and Reserves for eight years, and in processing computers. We have with appropriate controls, 1992 moved into the Occupational watched the travel agent give combined with a decrease in way to online travel apps and we many of the most hazardous Industrial safety may be slowing down, are witnessing the slow demise positions through automation but environmental health and safety is of the local retailer. or alternative processing has gearing up to be the big thing this century. The Post World War II decreased the need for the health industrial powerhouse, the and safety professional in many sophistication. If the military can Medicine and Health and Safety United States, the home of employment scenarios. do a pinpoint missile strike with a field. Throughout my formative General Motors and U.S. Steel, drone in the Middle East against years and career, I have witnessed has watched the manufacturing So where are things going? a wanted terrorist from a small how safety—no matter where you sector chase after low wage- The major forces impacting room in Nevada, clearly, we can are, at home, school, or work, is one earning workers in the global these job categories in the future excavate a ditch in Argentina of the most important elements economy. A shirt put together by are artificial intelligence and from the beach in the Caribbean. of ensuring a healthy life, not just $1.50 per hour wage earners in further advances in automation But can we keep that workplace for yourself, but all who come into Asia can be sold cheaper in the and technology. Where will the safe for the community nearby or contact with you. I believe safety U.S. than if made here, even with transportation industry be when prevent a damaging mistake from impacts the individual, the family, shipping costs and import fees. motor vehicles, aircraft, and destroying the equipment? and the community. By providing Safety jobs were not always maritime vessels are controlled access to valuable information a big thing in the U.S. The more autonomously? Where will Engineering, toxicology, and sharing the knowledge and mature safety professional can the energy sector be in the computer programing, robotics. insight acquired through our own easily remember manufacturing transition to renewables such The safety professional of the experiences and training, Access operations with unguarded as wind power and hydrogen; future will be less involved Compliance and its affiliates can presses, toxic chemicals, and not to mention the phasing out in guardrails and enclosures be an effective tool in helping work practices that would of the petrochemical industries. and more about maintaining prevent accidents, injuries, and horrify the modern workplace. Are service jobs spared? a fleet of overhead drones, unsafe situations/environments. Sadly, many of these things When IBM’s Watson remote robotics and regulating are still commonplace in some computer was loaned to a large temperature. That is, of course, My life and work experiences overseas worksites. It was the cancer center to round with the until artificial intelligence offer a customer more than 18 rise of workers compensation doctors, the patient outcomes teaches our machines to do all years of hands-on knowledge medical costs in the 1970s and improved 20%. Even service this without us. The philosophies of occupational safety and 1980s that convinced employers jobs like physicians are likely of risk management won’t health programs, including 16 that it was cheaper to prevent to be replaced by intelligent change. What are the hazards years of managerial experience an injury than to pay for one. diagnostic computers. and how can we eliminate them in leadership, communication, During the 1980s and 1990s, Dangerous jobs will be managed will continue to be the mantra. organization, analyzing and most of our modern safety in the Metaverse with virtual problem-solving skills. As such, protocols and practices were reality communicating with The skill set will evolve, so Access Compliance and its developed. OSHA became a physical robots. Buildings being get out the books and keep affiliates are able to identify various dynamic force in pushing constructed will be printed up with the changes going on occupational health, medicine, and defining these practices, with massive printers rather around you. Oh, and by the way, and safety needs within a variety imposing penalties for failure to than assembled by construction industrial safety may be slowing of industry settings. comply. But it was the cost of an crews. Heavy equipment will down, but environmental health unsafe workplace and harming be operated by VR headsets and and safety is gearing up to be I enjoy the challenge of workers that drove the incentives. there won’t be any workers the big thing this century, so designing and presenting working in confined spaces to programs tailored to fit individual worry about. company needs and look forward to working with new and existing clients to advance a culture of safety in their respective organizations. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 33

THE PSYCHOL FRONTI ER By Rachel Bell, This is an interesting time well-being, is a crucial part of and using engagement and Brewers Association Safety for the American job the human factor in workplace motivation to attract and retain Subcommittee Co-Chair market. More people are incidents. Nearly every story I top candidates. I believe we need leaving the conventional hear involves someone being to tap into these methods and workforce or insisting on distracted, stressed, burnt use them to improve workplace flexible hours, remote options, out, or the victim of social safety from a leadership and and better pay to try and keep inequalities that inhibit their employee perspective. up with inflation. This suggests ability to focus on their work. a core shift toward prioritizing If safety professionals plan Engagement happy and healthy workers and around the curveball of human championing a good work-life nature with engineering and Employee engagement can balance. This shift combined administrative controls, I be broadly defined as an with various movements don’t see why we shouldn’t individual’s complete buy in to dedicated to zero tolerance for be taking it a step further the company and the importance discrimination and harassment and addressing some of the of their role in it. It makes them will hopefully lead to a much underlying conditions that lead want to do their duties, follow less stressful workplace. The to workplace stressors. rules, and adhere to values question I find myself asking is: because they know that they what does this mean for safety? This is what I see as the are appreciated and valued future of safety; the next for doing so1. A good deal of As someone who is constantly frontier is psychological. We are research has already been done pushing for mental health transitioning to an era in which on the benefits of employee to fall under the umbrella of we don’t just sweep mental engagement, and on how it workplace safety in my specific health or Diversity, Equity, can correlate to safety. You industry, I feel like the world and Inclusion (DEI) issues might have seen these talked is finally catching up with my under the rug. Businesses are about in regards to company mission. Mental health, or catering to employee experience culture, safety culture, or safety 34 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

L vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 35

Mental health, employees to be more engaged. A good example of this issue Maybe this is the holistic or well-being, is Motivation is complex and ever- is the construction industry. approach to safety: we are able a crucial part of evolving, and therefore not the This industry is characterized to link our success directly to the human factor same for every employee3. For by long hours, strenuous work, the success of employees and in workplace example, it’s easy to give office and often a tough, macho the business. In my industry, incidents. workers flexible hours and culture of ignoring physical since COVID-19, I have seen remote work, but giving your and mental problems. It has conference calls begin with climate. These studies all have manufacturing employees a one of the highest suicide rates friendly check-ins. People from similar results: leadership, work-life balance might mean of any industry. an older generation are opening communication, and including reducing shift hours, offering up about stress and anxiety and employees in decision-making more PTO, or hiring additional Fortunately, a lot of research expressing concern over their processes leads to better employees, none of which are and awareness has already coworkers. Company Culture compliance and fewer incidents2. easy or cost effective at first. been generated. A recent is now an entire seminar track pulse survey conducted by instead of one panel out of 100. Any readers who have tried Interestingly, the primary the American Psychiatric It feels like we’re all arriving at to fix company-wide safety motivators aren’t necessarily Association Foundation and the conclusion that taking care compliance issues know that tied to money. Concepts like the Construction Financial of our workforce is what’s most changing an entire company recognition, career/educational Management Association important. If we can maintain culture is practically impossible opportunities, and healthy shows increased awareness this trajectory, I believe the without the help of management management relationships and progress toward future of safety is full of hope, leadership. Management’s regularly rank above salary addressing risk factors. success, and healthy workers. commitment to safety and the and bonuses when employees 77% of leadership figures actions they take to support this are asked what they want (owners, CEOs, etc.) said SOURCES commitment are a key indicator out of their job4. This data is they recognized promoting 1 Bedarkar, Madhura and of a successful safety program. likely more skewed given our awareness and mental health Specifics in this area include: increased economic pressures, resources like Employee Pandita, Deepika (2014). A Study accountability of managers, open but positive reinforcement, Assistance Programs were a on the Drivers of Employee dialogue between managers, acknowledgment of career priority for their company. Engagement Impacting providing access to training goals, and access to internal 51% of workers believed Employee Performance. and resources, and allowing resources is something all their company has a “caring Procedia—Social and Behavioral engagement of all team management should be able culture” in place. Still, Sciences 133: 106–115. members1, 2. If your company to improve upon simply by 37% of workers surveyed 2 Mullins, Rebecca; Blair, is pivoting toward being more changing patterns of behavior. said they would not openly Earl; Dunlap, E. Scott (2019). aware of employee experience, discuss mental health with a Management Leadership I suggest trying to work in a The best source of data on supervisor5. Improving Employee Safety more inclusive and thorough how your workers are feeling Engagement. PSJ Professional safety program as well. Basically, about their work-life balance Defining success in Safety. November 2019. assp.org. if people are already open to a and state of being is the workers employee safety engagement 3 Naile, Idah and Selesho, Jacob cultural change, try to change themselves. Ideally, they are and better mental well- M. (2014). The Role of Leadership what you need to while this able to tell you what they need being will look different in Motivation. Mediterranean openness lasts. to feel safer and happier at across different industries, Journal of Social Sciences. Vol 5, work, but if your company companies, and even between No 3: 175–182. Motivation doesn’t have a good history of different departments within 4 Gostick, Adrian and Elton, offering a safe environment the same company. It will Chester (2007) The Carrot Another key factor to look at is to speak up in, consider require figuring out the current Principle. O.C. Tanner Company. the motivation that will drive anonymous surveys or a third- baseline, what employees need Free Press. New York, NY. party company. You could also to feel and do better, and what 5 Workplace Mental Health. use data such as: hours worked, management is willing and Construction Industry. 2021 overtime worked, PTO used, able to do to get them there. Pulse Survey Results and near miss or incident reports, I foresee safety professionals Report. American Psychiatric individual or group productivity, having stronger relationships Association Foundation, and overall employee retention with Human Resources, and Construction Financial to look for hard evidence of an both departments working to Management Association, imbalance or problem. show how physical safety and CSDZ, Homes Murphy. psychological safety go hand https://workplacementalhealth. in hand with company quality org/employer-resources/ and performance. mental-health-and-well- being-in-the-construction-i 36 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org



TSFUAHLTFOEEUOTRKYEINIOSGF By Phil La Duke 38 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

GRIM I have been working on a series of articles on the future of work for Authority and Thrive Global magazines and writing my fourth book for publication on workplace violence (as it pertains to work-from-home employees), and the topic of the future of the field of safety is squarely at the crossroads of these two topics. On one hand, we have executives across all industries extolling the virtues of the “gig economy,” and virtually all executives that I interviewed on the subject agreeing that working from home is here to stay. On the other hand, during my research, I found that while OSHA holds that employers are still bound by the General Duty Clause to ensure a safe workplace irrespective of where the employees work, it doesn’t do much to ensure this happens. Superficially, this doesn’t seem like it’s a problem. But if we dig just a little deeper, we can foresee some real issues in our future. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 39

gig e·con·o·my For starters, the word But the problems don’t the stairs on the way to the “employee’’ is moving deeper stop with the poor definition door or slip and fall on my noun and deeper into a miasmic of the word “employee.” The porch retrieving the package, a labor market gray area wherein employees traditional definition of the would these injuries qualify characterized by are getting more and more word “workplace” just doesn’t as work-related? I would have the prevalence difficult to define. Clearly, a fit like it once did. OSHA has to prove that my injury was of short-term person with an employment made it clear that it will not work-related. contracts or contract (including a collective inspect a home workspace, freelance work bargaining agreement) is an so it effectively abandons the Falling in my kitchen while as opposed to employee, as are employees who work-from-home employees getting a cup of coffee wouldn’t permanent jobs. work under a W2 (irrespective from any enforcement of safety qualify as a work-related if they are full- or part-time, regulations. OSHA’s stand injury, but how is this scenario hourly or salaried, or even on following up on worker different from me falling in salaried nonexempt or salaried complaints in a work-from- a common break area in an exempt). Contractors are the home environment is even more office environment? It isn’t. employee of the company that murky—the short answer seems In a perverse way, this will is their employer of record (the to be they won’t be doing any make companies that have temp agency or contract house follow-up investigations (at a significant work-from- that provides them to the host least in any legally meaningful home percentage of their company), but OSHA has long way) of any worker injuries that workforces look good—if one is held the position that there happen in a work environment permitted to ignore, or use case exists a shared responsibility in a private domicile. management, to avoid reporting between contract employee injuries, we are likely to see a providers and their customers Next, we have the problem “golden age” of worker safety. when it comes to safety. But of defining an “injury.” Injury Rates (IR) will plummet, what about a contractor who OSHA has decreed that for an Days Away or Restricted Time is self-employed and working injury that occurs in a home (DART) will all but disappear. under an I-9? workplace to be recordable, This completely misleading the onus falls on the worker improvement will further Who is responsible for to prove that he or she was bolster the argument for the ensuring this contractor’s injured while engaged in need for fewer Safety Personnel, safety? The I-9 contract holder work-related activities when or for loading up the Safety or the company for which the injury occurred—even Function with responsibilities the contracted employee is if the injury happened in an for areas that they are neither delivering services? The law has area designated as the home qualified nor proficient. long held that there is a shared workplace. This is beyond responsibility for worker safety problematic; it creates such Another complication likely between a contracted employee an incredible burden of proof to throw a monkey wrench that is assigned to work at the that most workers cannot into the life of a worker in customer’s location. However, prevail even if their claim is the field of safety is the great many contract employees completely legitimate. resignation. Studies have aren’t housed at the customer’s shown that many of these physical location. In that case, For example, I am a W-2 workers aren’t really retiring as who is responsible for worker employee contracted to a much as they are moving from safety? Effectively, nobody. single company, a major a full-time position to taking movie studio. I don’t have an advantage of the gig economy. Vendors, contracted office in Hollywood and work Many jobs in safety will move employees (those provided by out of my home office in my from full-time in-house temp agencies and contract suburban Detroit home. My positions to gig workers. houses), and I-9 contractors office once was my daughter’s are the backbone of the gig bedroom and when she moved What does all this mean for economy, and if these workers out, I converted it to an office. safety practitioners? Well, the are responsible for their The only activities I do in my outlook isn’t good. Look for: own safety, then the need office are work related but my for employees in the Safety work-at-home may take me • A False Decrease in Function is greatly reduced— out of my office—for example, Recordable Injuries. If read: fewer jobs available for answering the door to receive the definition of the word the next generation of office goods that I ordered “injury” begins to mean, Safety Practitioners. online. If I were to fall down “an incident that results in harm to an employee who is working on company 40 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

property,” and tens of would even contain any verbs working so that the company thousands fewer workers or punctuation. ergonomics team could evaluate are no longer housed on our workspace setup.) If the company property, it stands • More Lip Service. In my safety function is to survive to reason that the removal in its current state, it needs to of most legitimate injuries entire career of working with work on finding solutions and (particularly ergonomic C+ level executives I have finding them quickly. In the injuries) will correlate to never heard a single one say, meantime, the old adage that, facile drop in the number of “I would LOVE to hurt more “most injuries happen in the Recordable Injuries. workers but I just can’t afford home,” takes on a menacing it.” I genuinely believe there new meaning. • A Real Drop In Injury Costs. are good executives who believe in the importance of Phil La Duke is a Since the work is done at keeping workers safe. But popular speaker home and it is very difficult now that the cost of worker & writer with more for injured employees to injuries is likely to be shifted than 2,500 works prove that their injuries to the injured party with in print. He has contributed to happened a) in their the company bearing no Authority, Buzzfeed, Entrepreneur, workplaces and b) while meaningful legal liability, Monster, Thrive Global, and engaged in work-related how easy will it be to simply many more magazines and activities, the injury costs forget about worker injuries is published on all inhabited (while remaining the same and the cost which now falls continents. He is the author of or, more likely, be higher) on the injured party. three books and a contributor will shift from the to one more. His first book is a employers’ accounting • Exponential Growth visceral, no-holds-barred look ledger to the workers’. In “Blame the Victim” at worker safety, I Know My Mentality. If a worker gets Shoes Are Untied! Mind Your Own • A Marked Decrease In hurt on a construction site, Business. An Iconoclast’s View the Number Of Fulltime or in a factory, or in a mine, of Workers’ Safety. His second Safety Personnel. With or in a distribution center, book Lone Gunman: Rewriting far fewer employees on there is often a temptation the Handbook On Workplace company-owned premises, to think (or even say), Violence Prevention which the perceived need for “well, if he would have just deals with workplace violence, the number of safety staff followed the rules,” or, “she particularly directed at women, is is likely to dramatically was just being complacent;” listed as #16 on Pretty Progressive decrease. Unfortunately, it’s human nature to deflect magazine’s list of 49 books with less oversight and blame and rationalize an that powerful women study in guidance, the actual number injury as being the product detail. His third book, Blood In My of disabling injuries is likely of poor work habits or bad Pockets Is Blood On Your Hands to increase. decision making on the was recently released and will part of the injured party. be followed by Work-Home Life • More Legal Loopholes. How much easier does this Imbalance: The Location Of The become when the worker Workplace Has Changed But The Loopholes are created by has absolute control over the Potential For Violence Remains imprecise language. Legalese work environment? Despite due to be released in December. (the language that lawyers this control, the work- La Duke also contributed a use in contracts and policies) at-home employees have chapter of 1% Safer, a not-for- is deliberately vague, grown accustomed to the profit book written by the “top difficult to comprehend, hazards in their home and game-changers and global and subject to widely have become “normal blind” thought leaders.” Phil is listed in different interpretations. (they can’t see the hazards the top 20 experts in the Future of Legalese allows lawyers because the hazards are part Work by Expert File. latitude in constructing legal of the normal landscape of Follow Phil on Twitter arguments—the litigants’ the home). @philladuke, on Facebook at lawyers can make a legal https://www.facebook.com/Phil- argument that puts their case There are no easy solutions La-Duke-320996002174991/ or in the best possible light. to these issues. (Although, I read his weekly blog Sadly, OSHA isn’t even as clear did work from home for an www.philladuke.wordpress.com. in its directives as legalese. In excellent company that had us In addition to his extensive writing, fact, if it were any vaguer, I photograph or film ourselves La Duke is currently employed am not sure the requirements as a COVID Compliance and and letters of understanding Production Safety Consultant for the film and television industry. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 41

FEATURED PRODUCTS ERICSON MANUFACTURING Booth 820 LEHIGH CUSTOMFIT Booth 533 20–30 Amp Compact Lehigh CustomFit Distribution Units Wellness Program Brian Earl Jim Murphy [email protected] / 440-477-0331 [email protected] / 740-753-9100 Ext 2349 Ericson.com LehighCustomFit.com Ericson Launches their NM20 and 30-Amp series of Everyday working conditions cause debilitating ailments. A Non-metallic boxes. Designed to provide safe and Lehigh CustomFit Wellness program provides assessment tools compliant jobsite power, Ericson’s NM series are designed such as a 3D foot scanner, condition-built footwear, custom for popular on-site power—whether standard receptacles orthotics & medical-grade compression socks to correct & or popular receptacles found on portable generators. Learn protect. Decrease lost-time cases & increase productivity. more—blog.ericson.com/blog ROCO RESCUE Booth 706 SAFETY RAIL COMPANY Booth 424 ASAP Lock SRC360 Mobile Rail Joshua Hill Patrick Deering [email protected] / 800-647-7626 [email protected] / 952-594-3508 RocoRescue.com safetyrailcompany.com ASAP Lock follows the user without intervention. In a shock load The SRC360 Mobile Rail provides OSHA-compliant fall or sudden acceleration (fall), it locks on the rope and stops the protection—and, when used as a permanent installation, all user. The integrated locking function allows you to immobilize the personnel accessing the roof are protecting 24/7. Its non- device to reduce the potential fall distance. penetrating design requires no drilling, as its cast-iron bases simply rest on the roof’s surface. 42 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org



Infographic Corner 1864 1919 1970 Earplugs Bullard produced President Richard were first and manufactured Nixon signed into law patented. the very first head the Williams-Steiger protection device, Occupational 1880 primarily for miners. Safety and Health Act. The “eye protector” was 1930s created with two layers 1971 of semi-opaque cloth. Brothers Bob and Joe Switzer invented the The Occupational 1909 first fluorescent paint, Safety and Health which they marketed Administration (OSHA) The “eye protector” was as “Day-Glo.” was created. adapted to include a form of safety glass. 1972 1911 1933 3M introduced the first NIOSH-approved Dr. Alice Hamilton (now President Franklin D. disposable filtering considered the founder Roosevelt selected face-piece of industrial medicine in Frances Perkins as respirator. America) published a Secretary of Labor study of the white lead and the first female 2021 industry that was the Cabinet member. first of a series of Bureau Demand for of Labor reports known temporary workers in as the “Federal Survey.” the U.S. was expected to increase by 14.4% in 44 Leader—Spring 2022 the fourth quarter. vpppa.org

At the end of the day, you’ll be... Only $25/year The Leader : VPPPA’s award-winning magazine SUBSCRIBE TODAY! STAY SAFE! Discounts available on bulk orders. Email [email protected] to learn more. [email protected] | 703-761-1146 vpppa.org

The History of Ericson F or over 104 years throughout all electrical plugs Ericson has led Ericson has engineered and connectors. the industry in and manufactured producing safe, safe, code-compliant As lighting became more jobsite power and electrical products for the portable, including use in lighting products safety industry. From our hazardous locations, Ericson for workers in a first product, the insulated responded with a hazardous wide variety of handlamp, patented in 1918, location handlamp, originally applications. to our extensive line of patented in the 1930s. This temporary Jobsite Power and handlamp is used extensively plugs and connectors with its Lighting Products, over the today in critical industries, line of Perma-Kleen products— past century, Ericson has led lighting hazardous spaces with preventing the threat of E coli, the industry in producing safe, safe compliant lighting products. Salmonella, Listeria, jobsite power and lighting and other dangerous products for workers in a wide In 1959, Ericson developed bacterial contamination. variety of applications. and patented the first Since our initial insulated nonmetallic electrical box Serving critical portable handlamp patent in 1918, for portable jobsite power, and temporary lighting in Ericson developed and significantly reducing electrical harsh and hazardous areas, patented the original over- shock hazards to workers. In Ericson further developed molded string light, seen in 1970, Ericson further expanded their patented linear SL String various forms throughout the this patent with the first portable Light. This patented and world today. The industrial box with GFCI Protection. award-winning design serves version of this string light harsh, wet, and washdown continues to serve critical Ericson expanded environments, providing safe, industries including the United development for a smaller, more quality, LED-efficient lighting. States Navy, who began use portable GFCI and patented the You’ll find this product used before WWII and continues first “go anywhere” In-Line extensively in the most even today. Ericson’s support GFCI in 1990. This significantly demanding industrial, food of our troops in national expanded GFCI portability and and beverage, mining, and defense is seen throughout all safety for all electrical cords. petrochemical applications. branches of the military, with Today, Ericson is the first to maintenance and task lighting produce compliant to UL943-5th After 104 years providing aboard ships, aircraft, and Edition for Self-Testing GFCI’s. safe Jobsite Power and Lighting ground support vehicles. Solutions, Ericson proudly Recognizing a need for a Realizing the need for safer continues development and safer electrical plug to power portable power in critical production of safe electrical crucial lighting and power food and beverage industries products in the USA. products, Ericson patented the where the water intrusion first “Safety Plug” in the late can be fatal, Ericson patented Learn more about 1920s. This dead front rubber several water-tight plug and Ericson’s century long design was significantly safer connector products in dedication to worksite safety than phenolic or even ceramic 1970, exceeding industry at www.ericson.com. plugs and connectors that were standards with critical IP69K prone to breakage and exposed level performance. workers to hazardous electrical shock. Today, this design is seen In the food and beverage industry, antimicrobial contamination can be devastating. In 2014, Ericson patented the only antimicrobial portable cord and water-tight 46 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

After 104 years providing safe Jobsite Power and Lighting Solutions, Ericson proudly continues development and production of safe electrical products in the USA. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 47

Membership Corner Follow us on social media! LinkedIn: VPPPA, Inc. Facebook @VPPPA Twitter: @VPPPA Instagram: @VPPPA_Inc VPPPA’s REGISTER TODAY! Safety Star of the Quarter Join us in-person • Pre-Symposium workshop on Regional Events at the 2022 Safety+ The VPPPA Safety Symposium for an Monday, August 22 Many VPPPA Regions are Star of the Quarter is a event that creates hosting events in the coming program to honor and a community unlike • Post-Symposium workshops year. Make sure to visit www. recognize an employee’s any other! vpppa.org/regional-events for the achievements in safety on Friday, August 26 most up-to-date information August 23–25, 2022 on regional events. performance and • More than 200 exhibitors professionalism. Thank Walter E. Washington Don’t Miss Out on Convention Center Plus . . . VPPPA’s Labor Summit you to all our VPPPA Washington, D.C. Webinar Series Safety Stars and VPPPA • VPPPA Scholarship Golf Official Event Hotel The Labor Summits are members for their Tournament on Sunday, monthly 30-minute webinars continued contributions Renaissance Washington, D.C. August 21 showcasing a diverse mix to the safety and health Downtown Hotel of speakers and topics • Monument Trolley Tour designed to engage workers, community. Safety Highlights: • Closing Reception at both represented and non- Stars of the Quarter represented, to jointly and will be featured on our • Direct access to key OSHA Swingers Crazy Golf collectively discuss workplace website, social media, safety. Labor summits last 30 Leader magazine, On the representatives • Walking challenge minutes to minimize impacts Level e-newsletter, and to work schedules and are receive a certificate. • 90+ workshops *All events subject to change. available as recordings the • Earn industry CEUs same day. Topics range from 2nd Quarter Safety Star • SGE Training For more information, women in the workforce to Brian Borowczak including workshop building safety culture within Shermco Industries descriptions, keynote your workplace, new workplace Risk Director speakers, and more, visit: hazards, worker trainer www.vpppa.org. programs, and more. Irving, Texas (Region VI) #SafetyPlus2022 Learn more at www.vpppa. To learn more about Brian, Update Your Contact Info org/webinars or to submit someone to be considered as a Safety We want to make sure we’re reaching you, but we need your Star, please visit our website: help. Please log into the Member Portal and verify all your https://www.vpppa.org/ contact information is correct, so you don’t miss out on all the membership/safety-star/. valuable benefits you deserve. If you have any questions, or have trouble logging into the Member Portal, please contact You can also email [email protected]. [email protected]. 48 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org

A note from VPPPA’s Membership & Outreach Manager, Son Nguyen In the professionally and personally. level of occupational safety and achieve occupational safety and cycle of To help all members continue to health performance by OSHA, health excellence. nature, navigate the uncertainty, here through our mentoring program. spring is are some of the ways we are The VPPPA mentoring program Our members represent the a reset continuing to provide benefits pairs sites that have achieved best that the safety and health moment. for you: Star status with sites that are community has to offer. They The dark just starting their VPP journey, strive for continued betterment days of winter are done away Discounts on Safety+ need additional program of their workplace culture to with, and as the season fades Symposium registration guidance, or are looking to ensure every worker makes away, it is replaced with the improve best practices at their it home safely. We are proud warm, gentle gift of spring. Members in current good facilities. Mentors have been of our members and their Spring is the season of renewal. standing will receive a discount through the VPP audit process unwillingness to settle for In the cycle of VPPPA, spring of up to $200 off registration. several times and are committed “good enough.” Excellence is also membership renewal The VPPPA Safety+ Symposium to helping other VPPPA members is not a destination; it is a season. VPPPA membership is the only national educational continuous journey. renewals are based on event for VPP worksites to anniversary dates, and many of achieve and maintain safety and Please contact [email protected] if you your membership renewal dates health excellence. have any questions about your VPPPA membership. fall between January–April. There are several options to find Discounts on regional out when your membership is conference registration ready for renewal. The ten VPPPA Regions offer • The primary contact on your a safety and health network next to home. Throughout account will receive an annual the year, our Regions offer renewal notice by email a VPP Application Workshops, month before the membership SGE training, OSHA updates, expires. If your primary mentoring opportunities, contact information has networking events, and much changed, please notify VPPPA more. Members in current good to update the account. standing will receive a discount on these events. • Login into the Member Portal Expand your knowledge to access payment history and look at open invoices. Equip yourself with resources that help you face complex • Contact VPPPA Membership safety challenges. Our monthly webinars are free to members. and ask for your renewal date. Our webinar series are presented by our members and partners. While 2022 has been a return to “normal” for many of us, Sharing success to make challenges in the health and workplaces safer safety industry continue, and we recognize our members VPPPA members help others have been impacted both reach VPP status, the highest While 2022 has been a return to “normal” for many of us, challenges in the health and safety industry continue, and we recognize our members have been impacted both professionally and personally. vpppa.org Leader—Spring 2022 49

Ad Index Be sure to check out the www.vpppa.org Featured VPPPA National Board of Directors Product Listing Chairperson on page 42. Terry Schulte, NuStar Energy, LP Advertiser Website Page Vice Chairperson Dan Lazorcak, CSP, Honeywell International Always in Mind (A.I.M) www.aimforsafety.com 49 Treasurer AP Safety Plus Training https://apsafetytraining.com 24 Sean D. Horne, Valero Energy Board of Certified www.bcsp.org 51 Secretary Safety Professionals Bill Linneweh, CSP, Hendrickson International Bollé Safety www.bollesafety-usa.com 52 Director from a Site With a Collective Bargaining Unit Ericson www.ericson.com 47 Jack Griffith, Central Plateau Cleanup Company Gas Clip www.gascliptech.com 5 Director from a Site Without a Collective Industrial Scientific www.indsci.com 9 Bargaining Agent Johnathan “JD” Dyer, Structuretone/LF Driscoll Lehigh Custom Fit https://www.customfit.me/ 43 unhealthyfeet.html Director from a DOE-VPP Site Michelle Keever, UCOR, an Amentum-Led National Safety Council www.nsc.org/worktozero 25 Partnership with Jacobs Panduit www.panduit.com 19 Director from a VPP Contractor/ Construction Site Roco Rescue www.rocorescue.com 2 Brad Gibson, S&B Engineers & Constructors SafeStart www.safestart.com 37 Director-at-Large Vacant Safety Rail www.safetyrailcompany.com 15 Director-at-Large Safety+ Symposium www.vpppa.org 23 Shelly Ettel, Amentum Working Concepts www.softknees.com 31 Director-at-Large Saprena Lyons, Fluor Idaho VPPPA contacts To reach the VPPPA National Office, call (703) 761-1146 or visit www.vpppa.org. To reach a particular staff member, Director-at-Large please refer to the contact information below. Christina Ross, Morton Salt Sara A. Taylor, CMP Kerri Usher Son Nguyen Director-at-Large Director of Operations Communications & Membership & Daniel Charles, Brandenburg Industrial [email protected] Outreach Manager Outreach Manager Service Company [email protected] [email protected] Heidi Hill Director-at-Large Partnership Manager Ariana Hanaity Bryan Knight Andy Foster, Hanford Mission [email protected] Communications Coordinator UX Web Services Programmer Integrated Solutions [email protected] [email protected] Lisa Silber Editor Sales & Advertising Sierra Johnson Kerri Usher, VPPPA, Inc. Coordinator Senior Education Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] Associate Editor Ariana Hanaity, 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. Ideas and opinions expressed within the Leader represent the independent views of the authors. Postmaster >> Please send address changes to: VPPPA, Inc. • 7600 Leesburg Pike, East Building, Suite 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. 50 Leader—Spring 2022 vpppa.org