5/28/17

Fall Prevention Training for General Industry Employees





OSHA's efforts to revise and update the existing walking-working surfaces standard for general industry have been ongoing since 1973. A focus of the update is employee training. Here's what you need to know.


In 2016, OSHA passed a final rule expanding the scope of the existing walking and working surface standard for general industry and adding a fall protection standard for general industry; acknowledging that many general industry workers face similar types of fall hazards as those in construction. More than 25 years in the making, the new rule requires general industry employers to identify fall hazards in their workplace and establish plans and procedures to ensure that slip and fall hazards on floors, roofs, stairs, ramps, dockboards, scaffolds, elevated platforms and other walking-working surfaces are guarded. The rule also establishes specific requirements for workplaces that use personal fall protection systems as a means of protecting employees from fall hazards to ensure that the components, devices and equipment that will be used are adequately rated and that employees are properly trained to use them.

Under the old rule, which was established in 1971, guardrails were the primary method of fall protection that employers were required to use when guarding against fall hazards. The new rule is performance-based, acknowledging that guardrails aren't always the best way to protect workers from falls; and it provides employers with the flexibility to determine the most effective methods of guarding their workers from specific fall hazards.

OSHA's long-established rule for fall protection in the construction industry provides a framework for employers to identify fall hazards and establish the necessary plans and procedures to keep workers who perform various construction jobs at heights safe. Until recently, workers in general industry have not had a similar set of protective standards.

Wherever possible, the general industry rule mirrors the construction standard to help avoid confusion, especially in workplaces where both general industry and construction activities may occur. An example of this is the requirement to train employees which, according to the Federal Register, principally was drawn from the existing construction fall protection standard.

Training Is Necessary

Establishing plans and procedures to prevent workplace fall hazards are two important steps in preventing incidents. But without adequate training, employees aren't likely to know these elements exist or how they protect them from harm. As part of the final rule, OSHA established training requirements that outline what employees who may be subject to fall hazards need to know before they are exposed to a fall hazard [29 CFR 1910.30(a) (1)].

"OSHA believes that the new training requirements are necessary, and effective worker training is one of the most critical steps employers can take to prevent employee injuries and fatalities," according to the Federal Register notice. The AFL-CIO, American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and other industry groups support this requirement and acknowledge that training is an essential element of this rule.

Like other requirements in the final rule, the training requirements are performance-based, allowing employers the flexibility to choose the methods that they feel are most effective. Employers may use classroom, audio-visual, demonstrations, field training, web-based, computer-based or other forms of training to meet the requirements of the standard. No matter which method(s) are chosen, training must be performed by a qualified person [29 CFR 1910.30(a) (2)] and if web, video or computer-based methods are used, a qualified person must be available to answer questions.

Although the qualified person does not need to have a formal degree, he or she must have extensive knowledge of "the types of fall hazards, how to recognize them and the procedures to minimize them; the correct procedures for installing, inspecting, operating, maintaining and disassembling personal fall protection systems and other equipment." Internal personnel, outside personnel (such as vendors) or a combination of the two may be used to meet the training requirements.

To be effective, training must be understandable [29 CFR 1910.30(d)]. For some employers, this may mean conducting training in multiple languages or employing different training methods. Even if the only training they need to receive is to stay out of posted affected areas where fall hazards are present, this training only is valuable if they understand that a hazard is present and how their restriction from being in an affected area protects them.

5/25/17

Product Walk-Around: SX™-135 XC Telescopic Boom Intro - ANSI


The Genie® SX-135 XC™ self-propelled telescopic boom delivers industry-leading outreach and capacity through the full working envelope for incredible operational versatility and accessibility. 

The SX-135 XC model is the perfect choice for your customers to work on challenging jobsite applications while giving you the quality and reliability you have come to expect from Genie.

Check out the full walk-around and information about the SX-135 XC at: http://www.genielift.com/en/products/....

5/22/17

Impressions Parker Hannifin at Hannover Messe 2017 - Germany


Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, presented a network of smart solutions at this year's Hanover Trade Fair. Parker’s technologies enable industrial companies to optimally utilise the enormous benefit potential of digital networking. The company also presented components for smart IoT solutions from a single source that can be easily integrated into plant and machinery to provide a comprehensive technology system solution made up of hydraulic, fluid connection technology, electromechanical and pneumatic components. The range forms a platform for process and productivity improvements.

5/16/17

Talking Torque on the Genie® GTH™- 844®


GTH-844 74HP OPTION

The popular Genie GTH-844 rough terrain telehandler has a new Tier 4 74-hp engine option, offering full-sized performance at the right-sized price. An engine has a big impact on your machine's overall rental return on investment (ROIC), so we kept things simple and cost-effective with the updates to our Tier 4 GTH-844 machines. By optimizing the drive train, and utilizing the new high-torque 74-hp engine, we can offer you a less complex machine at a lower price point than a 99-hp engine option, saving you money right from the start.

  •  Right-side mount engine provides enhanced visibility
  • Ergonomic operator’s station features tiltable steering wheel, single-lever joystick control, and new gauge and switch packages.
  • Standard Dana Axels
  • Standard features include: a Quick-Attach system, low-profile tires, fenders (set of 4), rigging storage compartment, and lift shackle at boom tip
  • Proportional frame-leveling chassis — pick up or place loads on up to 10˚ side slopes
  • Multi-function proportional joystick control for fast, precise load positioning
  • Three selectable steering modes: front-wheel, coordinated and crab steer
  • Power-assisted steering
  • Turbocharged diesel engine
  • 3-speed forward and reverse Powershift transmission
  • High-efficiency/variable displacement hydraulic pump
  • ROPS/FOPS canopy (ISO compliant)
  • High output LED light package options
  • Rear Proximity Alarm options

5/13/17

Fall Arrest vs. Fall Restraints


Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries in the workplace. As you work to mitigate the dangers of falls in your facility by putting safe guards in place, keep the differences between arrest and restraint in mind: Fall arrest means to be caught while falling and fall restraint means to be restrained from falling in the first place.

5/10/17

The Importance of Genuine Cummins Products


Showcasing the Importance of buying Genuine Holset Turbochargers. Better engine protection, performance with less risk of failure are amongst the many benefits of Genuine Holset Turbochargers.
Learn more at https://cumminsengines.com/parts

5/07/17

Take advantage of our promotion prices on Genie® Genuine Productivity and Operator Protective Accessories

 Genie Fall Arrest Bar Example



Regular parts discounts apply!

- 20% off on Panel Cradles
- 20% off on Pipe Cradles
- 10% off on Fall Arrest Bars
- 10% off on Operator Protective Structure

Download our flyer at:

http://info.terex.com/e/28742/esPromoFlyer-NA-AMD-042017-pdf/6lqqq2/247541391

Offer valid May 2nd through June 30th, 2017.
Offer cannot be combined with any other special offers.
Regular part discounts apply. Valid in North America only.

5/04/17

Performing a Boom Lift Function Check - JLG Industries



Learn how to conduct a proper function check with boom controls. The function check ensures all functions operate smoothly with precise control. It provides the opportunity to visually inspect items that cannot be seen during the walk around, like boom sections and extendable axles. Some tips you’ll see include: Ensure the machine is on a firm, level surface in an area free of obstructions and that there is no load in the platform. Make sure there’s enough clearance around the machine and platform to safely operate all functions. The turntable lock should be disengaged. Always start with the ground controls. Watch the video for a more detailed overview.

5/01/17

Product Application: Genie machine vs scaffold: High wall surface cleaning work - ANSI


Genie machines’ superior features provide better solution in reaching greater heights whilst they are proven to be safe, more productive and easy to use.