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If your worksite has hazards that can be inhaled, you’re probably familiar with respirator filter cartridges. Heavy respirator use means changing filters or cartridges from time to time. There’s no set life span for filters or cartridges, but the more contaminants they trap, the less protective and less comfortable they become. There are over 20 different types of 3M respirator filters and cartridges designed to protect against different hazards—how do you know which ones are right fo …

If you’re occupying a space where fuel is burned and fumes have an opportunity to build up, you’re at risk for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is an odorless, colorless gas that’s hazardous to inhale, causing uncomfortable symptoms at low levels and death at higher levels. EMS, EMT, police and fire departments face this potential danger when responding to reports of flu-like illnesses or unconscious citizens who may be involved in CO poisoning themselves.  Avoid workplace injurie …

As the rest of the world retreats indoors, some of us still have to go to work. Winter weather can be a danger to your employees in more ways than one. When spending time outdoors in cold or icy weather, you need to protect yourself from common hazards, such as frostbite, slips, falls, hypothermia, dehydration, cold stress, and even snow blindness. From everyday jobs to large-scale industrial operations, learn how to prevent winter weather-related injuries. Protect Workers with Winter Wo …

Wildfires and pandemics are both bad on their own, but are especially bad when combined. How do you shelter from a wildfire while social distancing? Can wildfires be controlled if firefighters are exposed to COVID-19? How can you breathe safely with a coronavirus PPE shortage? If you live in a wildfire-prone area, plan ahead. Make kits full of safety supply essentials for both staying in place and evacuating, and look into places to shelter in advance: you don’t want to put a high …

People in the US and around the world are planning for the holidays. Some holiday traditions are being postponed, while others will look very different this year in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.  In general, you can stay safe by: Always wear a face mask, all times outside your of residence, unless and until you have arrived at your pod/family gathering Frequently washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol …

The best headlamps for use in hazardous work environments come with what is known as ATEX Markings. The ATEX acronym refers to EU equipment standards intended for use in explosive atmospheres. These markings are based on several factors, including the work environment and its perceived threat level. Different kinds of headlamps are designed for different applications, such as working above vs. underground and working around hazardous dust vs. gas and vapors. A related benefit our custom …

Choosing a gas monitor or detection device depends on the nature of your workplace and how your employees interact with the space. Learn about the pros and cons of different types of gas monitors to make the right choice for your business. Three Types of Gas Detectors: Portable gas detectors Fixed gas detectors Gas detection tubes (Colorimetric detection devices) Portable Gas Detectors Portable gas monitors are designed for employees working in the field or on location. I …

Many factors come into play when choosing a welding helmet. The phrase “one size fits all” rarely applies in these situations, so it’s best to learn about the different types of helmets and welding goggles used in the industry. From occasional hobbyists to experienced professionals, use this guide to find the right welding safety equipment for the task at hand. Single Fixed vs. Variable Shade Lens There are generally two types of welding helmets: those with single, fixed lens …

You can never be too careful when it comes to fire safety. Protecting your workers in the field starts with understanding the differences between flame resistant (FR) and arc flash, or arc rated (AR), safety workwear, and clothing. These terms were often used interchangeably when describing personal protective equipment (PPE), but in 2012, the NFPA 70E created clear distinctions between the two. Flame resistant clothing doesn’t offer the same level of protection as arc rated equipmen …

When taking a gas pipeline offline or installing a new one, utility crews must first treat the confined space with inert gas, such as nitrogen, to limit the chances of combustion. After the pipeline has been treated, workers should test the space for the presence of hazardous gases. This is what’s known as purge testing. However, this is not the same as conventional gas detection. The pipeline will contain little oxygen and high concentrations of natural gas, which could damage the gas detect …