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Archive for April 16th, 2024

Top 11 Benefits Of EHS In The Workplaces
By EHS School April 16, 2024

Top 11 Benefits Of EHS In The Workplaces

The significance of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) cannot be overstated. EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) is immensely significant for a company as it serves as the cornerstone for sustainable and responsible business practices. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), neglecting safety at workplaces will lead to fatal injuries, and almost 2.3 million employees suffer workplace diseases and accidents every year all over the world. That is why prioritizing EHS not only ensures compliance with legal regulations but also safeguards the well-being of employees and minimizes environmental impact. Before delving into the importance of EHS, it is crucial to understand what EHS is. Why organizations should consider this and the top benefits of EHS in the workplace. Scroll your screens and read this comprehensive guide! What Is EHS? EHS stands for Environment, Health, and Safety. In simple terms, EHS refers to a set of practices and guidelines that organizations follow to make sure they are environmentally responsible, protect the health of their employees, and maintain a safe workplace. It involves managing the impact of business activities on the environment, ensuring the well-being of workers, and preventing accidents or hazards in the workplace. EHS is important for legal compliance, employee satisfaction, and the overall reputation of a company. Environmental Management EHS begins with a focus on environmental management. Organizations need to assess and manage their environmental impact, including energy consumption, waste generation, and emissions. Adopting sustainable practices not only benefits the planet but also helps companies comply with environmental regulations. Health and Safety The “H” and “S” in EHS emphasize the paramount importance of employee well-being. Maintaining a safe and healthy workplace is not just a legal requirement but also a moral obligation. EHS programs involve risk assessments, safety training, and the implementation of measures to prevent accidents and occupational illnesses. Why Organizations Should Consider EHS? There are various concerns that fall within the scope of Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS). So below you read the most common issues of EHS: Considering the occupational safety Exposure to potentially harmful substances Environmental incidents and accidents Promote the safety and wellness of employees and workplaces Each of these challenges has its distinct complexities, but effective strategies exist to address them. Engaging with an experienced EHS consultant allows for the development of tailored solutions for your business. For those seeking to enhance their EHS program or with inquiries about EHS, we invite you to reach out to us. We are ready to discuss your specific requirements and assist in safeguarding your employees, business, and the environment. Why EHS Is Significant For A Company? A commitment to EHS contributes to a positive workplace culture, fostering employee satisfaction and productivity. Beyond the ethical imperative, investing in EHS initiatives leads to substantial cost savings by preventing accidents, reducing medical expenses, and mitigating disruptions to operations. Moreover, it enhances the company’s reputation, attracting customers, investors, and top talent, thereby establishing a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Ultimately, EHS is not just a compliance requirement; it is a strategic approach that aligns business success with environmental stewardship and the health and safety of the workforce. 5 Most Important Facts to Consider EHS In A Workplace Employee Well-Being & Productivity The foremost importance of EHS lies in its direct impact on employee well-being and productivity. According to the BLS report, between 2020 and 2021, the total number of catastrophic workplace injuries increased by 8.9%. A safe and healthy work environment significantly reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and illnesses among workers. This, in turn, leads to fewer absenteeism cases, enhanced morale, and increased productivity.  Employees who feel secure in their workplace are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and focused on their tasks, contributing to overall organizational success. Ultimately, this positive workplace atmosphere contributes to lower turnover rates and increased employee retention, saving companies both time and resources in recruiting and training. Environmental Conservation EHS is not limited to the well-being of employees; it extends to the preservation of the environment. Businesses have a responsibility to minimize their ecological footprint and contribute to sustainable practices. Implementing EHS measures such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and pollution control not only benefits the environment but also positions the company as a socially responsible entity.  Embracing eco-friendly practices not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also attracts environmentally conscious customers and partners. This commitment can enhance brand image, attract environmentally conscious customers, and even open doors to new business opportunities. Legal Compliance & Corporate Responsibility EHS plays a pivotal role in ensuring that organizations adhere to stringent legal regulations governing workplace safety and environmental protection. Governmental bodies worldwide impose various laws and standards to safeguard employees and minimize the impact of industrial activities on the environment. A robust EHS framework assists companies in understanding and complying with these regulations, mitigating the risk of legal repercussions.  However, operating with a commitment to environmental stewardship and employee well-being not only aligns with legal obligations but also enhances the company’s reputation. In today’s socially conscious world, consumers and investors increasingly favor businesses that actively contribute to sustainable and responsible practices. Risk Mitigation And Incident Prevention EHS programs are designed to identify and mitigate potential risks before they escalate into incidents. Proactive risk management reduces the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and environmental damage, safeguarding not only the workforce but also the company’s assets and reputation. Regular risk assessments, safety training, and the implementation of preventive measures create a resilient workplace. By prioritizing incident prevention, companies minimize the financial and operational impact of accidents, ensuring continuity in their business operations. This approach is particularly crucial in industries where the potential for hazardous incidents is higher, emphasizing the universal applicability of EHS practices. Cost Savings And Operational Efficiency Contrary to common perception, investing in EHS is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a strategic move that can lead to substantial cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Preventing accidents and illnesses reduces medical costs, workers’ compensation claims, and potential legal expenses. Moreover, efficient use of resources

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Communicating During Emergencies: 3 Do’s and 3 Don’ts
By EHS School April 3, 2024

Communicating During Emergencies: 3 Do’s and 3 Don’ts

In critical situations and emergencies, communication becomes a lifeline that saves lives, with safety, clarity, and quick action being guaranteed. How information is communicated can be a determinant between success or failure, be it a natural disaster, a public health emergency, or a security matter. This article describes three basic dos and don’ts of communication in time of emergency. The Do’s of Emergency Communication These are the actions and strategies you should apply in case of emergencies. Be Clear and Concise Present your message in a self-explanatory manner. Avoid using technical phrases and difficult sentences, since they may confuse the listener.  The objective is to share the main points that people can understand quickly and undertake the required actions. For instance, in the case of a hurricane, you may say “Evacuate to higher ground immediately. After closing all windows and doors, leave. Take only the necessary items”.  Hence, this information about the hazard, its time of occurrence, and the action required must be so clear that it will eliminate any possibility of misunderstanding. Provide Timely Updates Communicate information as soon as you receive it, and offer regular updates. Timeliness ensures that the public is aware of the situation’s progress and any changes to the instructions or advice. In case of situations like a viral outbreak on site or emergencies, communicating preventive measures and guidelines is vital to allow people to make necessary adjustments. It is always crucial to ensure that the affected parties in case of emergencies always have access to the latest information. Otherwise, you risk the spread of misinformation and creating a sense of mistrust among those affected. Use Multiple Communication Channels Spread the information not only via one channel but through different channels to cover a large group of people. This covers traditional, as well as social media, text message alerts, and public announcement systems. People get information by different means, and through various channels, it reaches a wider audience. For example, during a power outage, combine radio announcements, social media posts, and text alerts to inform the community about the repair efforts and to provide safety tips while the outage is in force.   The message will reach the ones on the internet as well as those who don’t use social media. Using more than one channel of delivery provides a great opportunity to spread your message to every relevant individual. The Don’ts of Emergency Communication Here are a few things you must avoid during emergency situations in order to keep things under control. Provide False Information Even well-meaning individuals can spread false or misleading information during a state of emergency. Such acts can result in panic, and mistrust or exacerbate an already bad situation. You should therefore validate the information before sharing it to ensure that your words don’t end up causing any unintended harm. Remember, in emergency scenarios, bad information is sometimes even worse than no information. Overwhelm With Details In emergencies, you should only communicate the necessary details. Sometimes, too much information, even if it is accurate, can overwhelm and confuse an individual. For instance, if there has been a spill of harmful chemicals at a site, you don’t need to go into thorough details about what the substance is and how it can be a hazard. Instead, prioritize urgent actions such as evacuation routes and safety precautions. Too much information can result in a waste of time and can distract from the immediate situation that needs to be addressed. Delay Communication Unnecessary delays in information can result in rumors and speculations, which could further cause unwanted anxiety.  It is more efficient to communicate early, even if you have limited information. You can always provide more details later on. The two most important factors in emergencies is time and trust and you can lose both by withholding critical information. Conclusion Communication in emergencies is both a science and an art. It calls for a fine balance between information being clear, well-timed, and reaching the masses, while on the other hand, not causing any problems such as false information, information overload, and communication delay. By following the golden rules—being short and punchy, providing timely updates, and using different communication channels—stakeholders can make sure that their messages do not only reach their audience but also prompt the desired action. And for those who want quick results, it is advisable to avoid the Don’ts—spreading fake news, overwhelming details, and delaying communication.

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Core Concept Behind Environmental Health & Safety Assistance
By EHS School March 20, 2024

Core Concept Behind Environmental Health & Safety Assistance

EHS, an acronym for Environment, Health, and Safety, encompasses a broad spectrum of elements aimed at safeguarding employees, the public, and the environment from workplace hazards. This includes laws, regulations, professional practices, and programs designed to ensure occupational safety and health. Essentially, EHS embodies the collective efforts of occupational safety and health professionals, alongside their counterparts in the Environmental department, working to establish and maintain a secure, healthy, and environmentally responsible work environment. What Are the Key Areas Of Focus In EHS? Workplace Safety: Emphasizes creating and maintaining a safe work environment. Involves adherence to safety protocols and preventive measures. Exposure to Hazardous Materials: U.S. workers, among the most stressed globally, contribute to over 120,000 deaths annually and 5%-8% of healthcare costs. Therefore, EHS addresses the control and mitigation of risks associated with dangerous substances. Ensures proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. Environmental Accidents and Spills: Focuses on preventing and managing accidental releases of pollutants. Implements protocols for quick response and cleanup in case of spills. Occupational Health and Wellness: Promotes employee well-being through health programs. Manages and prevents occupational health issues to enhance overall workforce health. Some Challenges and Solutions: Each area presents unique challenges, requiring tailored approaches. Collaboration with experienced EHS consultants enables the development of customized solutions. These solutions aim to address specific concerns within the business environment, ensuring comprehensive protection and compliance Why Is EHS Needed? In the world of workplace safety, considering the increasing cases of reported workplace injuries, there is an immense need for regulatory safety procedures to prioritize health and safety. Here are some of the reasons why there is a need for EHS; Environmental Protection: Safeguarding the Planet EHS departments play a pivotal role in fostering environmentally responsible business practices, especially in industries with significant environmental impacts. The overarching goal is to manage compliance with diverse environmental laws to ensure the protection of air, water, and land in the vicinity of industrial facilities. Compliance Management: Navigating Environmental Regulations EHS departments act as the guardians of compliance, ensuring that companies adhere to a multitude of environmental laws. This function is essential to protect environmental resources for the benefit of all citizens. In “dirty” industries like heavy manufacturing, where valuable products are produced alongside environmental impacts, EHS becomes crucial in striking a balance between economic activities and ecological preservation. Employee Safety: Mitigating Workplace Hazards The International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals a staggering global toll of 2.3 million workers suffering workplace accidents or diseases yearly. This translates to a daily average of 6,000 deaths, with a notable 8.9% increase in fatal work injuries in the U.S. between 2020 and 2021, particularly prevalent on construction sites. Therefore, urgent implementation of continually updated, comprehensive safety protocols is imperative to counteract these alarming statistics. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2019, affecting 2.8 out of every 100 U.S. workers. The high rate of non-fatal injuries underscores the pervasive threat to both individual well-being and organizational productivity. Work-related stress is linked to the six leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, and accidents, affecting employee and employer well-being. U.S. workers, among the most stressed globally, contribute to over 120,000 deaths annually and 5%-8% of healthcare costs. Addressing work-related stress through stress management programs and supportive work environments is crucial for mitigating health risks. EHS serves as a shield for employees, aiming to protect them from the potential hazards within their workplaces. In the United States, employers are obligated by law to provide a safe working environment, with specific regulations outlining the measures needed to ensure employee safety. International labor codes, such as the French Labour Code, echo this sentiment, emphasizing the global consensus on the importance of safeguarding workers’ health and safety. Corporate Responsibility: Integrating EHS Policies EHS policies, like Human Resource policies, form a crucial part of corporate responsibility. These policies establish guidelines for the company to follow, aligning with overall EHS management systems. They serve as a blueprint for responsible and sustainable corporate practices. As part of corporate responsibility, EHS departments often develop overarching policies that shape the company’s approach to sustainability, making EHS an integral aspect of a company’s fabric. Dynamic Nature of EHS: Adapting to Regulatory Changes EHS is dynamic, constantly evolving to keep pace with the ever-changing regulatory landscape. Practitioners in EHS must stay abreast of new developments that impact their job duties and the company’s overall EHS performance. In a world where there is a growing global awareness of the need to reduce corporate environmental footprints, coupled with increased sensitivity to workers’ rights and a focus on creating healthful work environments, EHS emerges as a critical force in navigating these challenges. EHS is imperative for both environmental protection and employee well-being, serving as a linchpin in promoting responsible business practices and ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulations. As companies strive for sustainability and corporate responsibility, EHS emerges as a dynamic and indispensable component of their operations. Why Is EHS Important? EHS is crucial for various reasons. From saving lives and prioritizing employee safety to preventing accidents and financial liabilities, EHS emerges as a cornerstone for responsible and sustainable business practices. By integrating EHS into their operations, businesses not only safeguard lives but also contribute to the protection of the planet for future generations. Here are some of the reasons that are discussed in detail; Saving Lives: Identifying And Addressing Hazards The foremost and perhaps the most crucial aspect of EHS lies in its potential to save lives. EHS practices enable businesses to identify and address potential hazards in the workplace and the environment, thereby preventing serious accidents and injuries. Through proactive measures, businesses can ensure that employees are not exposed to harmful substances or dangerous working conditions. This includes strict adherence to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules and the implementation of wellness programs to safeguard employee health. Employee Safety: Mitigating Bodily Injury EHS is paramount in aiding employees in avoiding bodily injuries. By meticulously managing workplace safety, EHS ensures that employees

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Injuries in the Construction Sector
By EHS School January 23, 2024

What Is The Rate Of Injuries In The Construction Industry

The construction sector is one of the most demanded sectors across the world due to its robust activities and amazing role in societal and economic development. Unfortunately, this profession carries a significant burden of workplace injuries. So, this guide is created to talk about the prevalence of the most common types of injuries and their statistics. Total Injury Rates According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers in the private sector reported 2.8 million nonfatal illnesses and injuries in 2022, up 7.5% from 2021. Both an increase in sickness and injuries was the cause of this rise. Injuries that are not fatal rose by 4.5% in 2022, reaching 2.3 million cases. The number of nonfatal illnesses rose by 26.1% in 2022 to 460.7 thousand. A 35.4 percent increase in respiratory infections was the main cause of the significant increase in illnesses. The number of respiratory ailments reached a peak of 428.7 thousand in 2020, fell to 260.6 thousand in 2021, & is again back at 365.0 thousand in 2022. The number of injuries reported in the private sector in 2022 remained constant from 2021, at 2.3 instances for 100 full-time equivalent workers. On the other hand, in 2022, the rate of illness rose by 19.9%. Compared to 37.7 cases in 2021, the illness rate in 2022 was 45.3 cases per ten thousand full-time equivalent workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the total fatal injuries accounted for 5,190 in all sectors in the year 2021 6 Most Common Types of Injuries Understanding the most common types of injuries in the workplace is essential in every business, especially if you are working in the construction sector. Once you comprehend these injuries, it will help you in formulating targeted preventive strategies to reduce workplace injury rates. The OSHA, which was the federal government, aims to build a secure and healthy place of work for everyone to identify different types of injuries to mitigate their hazardous impact. It doesn’t matter in which profession you are involved, whether you are an athlete or a construction worker, unexpected injuries can happen. Here, you will read about the most common types of injuries, such as falls, strains, fractures, etc. Strains and Sprains Strains and sprains are the most common musculoskeletal injuries that occur in the construction sector. These injuries may often result from overexertion, improper lifting techniques, or repetitive motions. Construction workers are frequently required to engage in physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy materials or operating machinery, putting them at an increased risk of strain and sprains. That is the reason, it is crucial to teach them ergonomic practices, provide proper training on lifting techniques, and allow them to take regular breaks to mitigate these injuries. Fractures Fractures are a major problem in construction work because of the high-risk nature of construction work, operating heavy machinery, or exposure to potentially hazardous conditions. Sometimes fractures can result from accidents such as falling from high places, structural failure, and more. The OSHA emphasizes preventing accidents that lead to severe fractures and they strictly govern their guidelines for adhering to safety protocols to significantly reduce the occurrence of these severe injuries. Falls Falls are one of the most common and dangerous forms of injuries suffered by construction workers. However, they are a great contributor to the injury statistics of the industry whether from heights, scaffolding, or ladders. As per the OSHA, falls are the leading cause of construction-related fatalities. In order to mitigate the workplace hazards and injuries that occur due to fall, it is highly imperative to get safety training on how to avoid the accidental falls. Moreover, there must be stringent policies on safety and the usage of fall protective systems, and their implementation. Cuts and Abrasions As opposed to an office environment, construction sites are associated with many cutting and abrasion incidences due to the use of different tools and materials. Workers can get injured by dangerous items such as shards and power tools; or even abrasive surfaces. It goes without saying that they should use quality PPE to avoid such traumas as gloves or safety goggles. It is one of the greatest responsibilities of an employer to regular tool inspection and tool safety training, and have a clean workplace which greatly reduces the chance of cuts and abrasions. Electrical Injuries Electrical hazards in the form of shock and electrocution abound at the construction site. Employees can touch live wires, defective apparatus, and an ungrounded electric network that will lead to severe accidents. T Compliance with electrical safety regulations, correct training, and appropriate use of lockouts/tags should be used when you are trying to avoid electric shock. Workers should wear adequate PPE while employers need to make sure that electrical systems get checked and maintained on a regular basis. Respiratory Issues Due to work in confined places, construction workers may exposed to various airborne contaminants that lead to respiratory problems. Dust, fumes, and other harmful substances present in the air such as asbestos pose a significant health risk. So, OSHA mandates the use of respiratory protection in situations where exposure to such hazards is unavoidable. They highly suggest employers consider the proper engineering controls and good ventilation to improve worker health and mitigate respiratory problems. Heat-related Illnesses Extreme weather can cause heat-related ailments including exhaustion from heat or heat stroke in construction workers who work outside. The best ways to avoid heat-related diseases are to drink enough of water, take regular pauses, and plan hard activities for later in the day. Additionally, employers need to provide employees with shaded spaces and training on how to spot heat-related stress signals. To Wrap Up the Things At last, it has been concluded that understanding or analyzing the illnesses and injuries in the construction sector, surely help in reducing the injuries in the workplace statistics. It is highly important to provide proper safety training to employees and consider proactive measures to build the safest work environment.

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A Comprehensive Guide On OSHA Hierarchy Of Safety Control
By EHS School January 8, 2024

OSHA Hierarchy of Controls: A Comprehensive Guide

Safety controls in the context of occupational safety refer to practical and achievable measures that organizations can implement to address workplace hazards. These controls are not only effective in mitigating risks but are also realistic in terms of implementation, considering factors such as cost, technology, and operational constraints. Identifying and implementing the hierarchy of safety controls are essential for creating a safe working environment and complying with regulatory requirements. The key principle of the hierarchy is to prioritize controls at higher levels whenever possible. For instance, eliminating a hazard is generally more effective than relying on PPE. However, in some situations, a combination of control measures from different levels may be necessary to ensure comprehensive protection. Employers are encouraged to follow the hierarchy of safety controls to create a safer work environment and protect workers from potential risks and hazards. This approach not only minimizes the likelihood of workplace incidents but also fosters a culture of safety and risk prevention. The Hierarchy of Controls: A Systematic Approach to Workplace Safety The hierarchy of safety controls is a system for classifying and identifying the safety measures to keep employees safe and secure at their place of work. It is simply the structured framework employed in occupational health and safety to systematically address and manage workplace hazards. This hierarchy prioritizes control measures based on their effectiveness in minimizing or eliminating risks. The hierarchy serves as a guiding principle to encourage the implementation of the most effective control measures first, fostering a safer work environment and mitigating occupational risks. However, the primary levels include elimination or substitution, where the hazard is removed or replaced with a less harmful alternative; engineering controls, involving physical modifications to isolate workers from the hazard; administrative controls, which focus on changing work practices to reduce exposure; and personal protective equipment (PPE), the last line of defense when other measures are not feasible. Let’s have a look at the hierarchy of safety controls! Understanding the Hierarchy of Controls: A 5-Level Approach to Workplace Safety The hierarchy of safety controls consists of five levels, often depicted as a pyramid, with each level representing a different approach to risk management. The levels, from the most effective to the least, are elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Elimination: The Most Effective Control Measure in the Hierarchy of Controls At the top of the hierarchy is the complete removal of the hazard. While this is not always possible, it is the most effective control measure. However, this process involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace. This could mean eliminating a particular process, substance, or activity that poses a risk to workers. Substitution: Replacing Hazards with Safer Alternatives When elimination is not feasible, substituting a hazardous substance or process with a less hazardous one is the next best option. This could involve replacing a toxic chemical with a safer alternative or using a less dangerous method. Engineering Controls: Isolating Workers from Hazards This level involves designing and implementing physical changes to the workplace or process to reduce or eliminate the hazard. Engineering controls are crucial for creating a safer work environment without relying on human behavior. This part’s major motive is to isolate workers from the hazard or remove the hazard from the workplace. Examples include installing machine guards, ventilation systems, or noise reduction measures. Administrative Controls: Modifying Work Practices to Reduce Risk Administrative controls focus on changing the way people work. This includes implementing policies, procedures, training, and work schedules to reduce exposure to hazards. While not as effective as elimination, substitution, or engineering controls, they play a significant role in enhancing overall safety. For instance, implementing work schedules to limit exposure time, conducting regular safety training, and establishing protocols for handling hazardous materials. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The Last Line of Defense Administrative controls focus on changing the way people work. This includes implementing policies, procedures, training, and work schedules to reduce exposure to hazards. While not as effective as elimination, substitution, or engineering controls, they play a significant role in enhancing overall safety. For instance, implementing work schedules to limit exposure time, conducting regular safety training, and establishing protocols for handling hazardous materials. Challenges in Implementing the Hierarchy of Controls: Overcoming Barriers to Workplace Safety Conducting Effective Risk Assessments: A Foundation for Workplace Safety Before implementing the hierarchy of controls, a thorough risk assessment must be conducted to identify and understand potential hazards. This assessment forms the foundation for designing an effective control strategy. Consider both acute and chronic risks, and involve employees in the process to gain valuable insights from those directly engaged in the work. Prioritizing Elimination and Substitution: The Cornerstones of Effective Hazard Control The first two levels of the hierarchy, elimination, and substitution, offer the most effective means of hazard control. Prioritize efforts to completely eliminate the hazard or substitute it with a less dangerous alternative. This proactive approach sets the stage for a safer work environment. Engineering Controls: Implementing Physical Solutions for Hazard Mitigation Engineering controls provide physical solutions to mitigate hazards. Invest in technologies and modifications that address risks at the source. Examples include installing machine guards, automated systems, or improved ventilation. These controls are reliable and do not rely solely on human behavior for effectiveness. Administrative Controls: Shaping Behavior and Promoting Safe Work Practices Administrative controls, such as policies, procedures, and training programs, play a vital role in shaping employee behavior. Develop clear and comprehensive guidelines for working safely. Ensure that training is regular, accessible, and tailored to the specific needs of each job role. Regularly review and update administrative controls to reflect changes in tasks or technology. The Importance of PPE: Protecting Workers as a Last Resort While PPE is the last line of defense, it remains a critical component of the Hierarchy of Controls. Ensure that employees have access to and properly use the necessary PPE for their specific tasks. Regular training on the correct use and maintenance of PPE should be conducted, and regular assessments should

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