If you work the second shift, generally from 4 p.m. to midnight, or the overnight shift while most people sleep, you experience a side of the world that many others do not. You may also run into problems that people who work during the day normally bypass. For example, you could be on the roads at a time when there are more drunk or distracted drivers around, and darkness limits everyone's visibility. You no doubt know it is dangerous to drive while fatigued, so here are some ways you can stay alert.
Final OSHA rule regarding recordkeeping
Employers in North Carolina have an obligation to keep a record of all of the work-related illnesses and injuries that affect their employees. A final rule recently issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has specified that this responsibility is ongoing and doesn't go away if an employer fails to properly record the incident when first required to do so.
When employees are injured due to severe weather
Many employees in North Carolina and around the country work outside where they are vulnerable to the weather. Some are required to work when there are warnings of severe weather in the area. One example occurred in 2015, when an employer decided to hold a scheduled outdoor circus performance when severe weather was in the area. When a thunderstorm hit, one of the tents collapsed, killing two and injuring dozens of others, including employees.
What type of compensation can I claim for slip-and-fall injuries?
Wintertime is often hazardous for many Raleigh seniors. The wet weather conditions and cold temperatures can make it challenging for older people to get around safely. The risk of slipping, falling and sustaining personal injuries is great. Also, many older people age differently. Some can avoid slip-and-fall situations; others cannot. Seniors who suffer from mobility issues, health concerns, diminished vision and balance problems are more likely to slip, fall and injure themselves. Although elderly people have a higher risk of accidents, anyone who has experienced a slip-and-fall accident may be interested in knowing the types of compensation she or he can receive for such injuries.
Safety rules to prevent truck driver fatigue suspended
In early December, Republican lawmakers blocked Obama administration rules that would require truckers in North Carolina and nationwide to get enough rest between shifts. Safety advocates worry other regulations could be rolled back once Republicans take control of Congress and the White House in January.
Drowsy drivers are more at risk for car accidents
North Carolina motorists are aware that they shouldn't drink and drive. Many of them also probably know they shouldn't drive while distracted, such as talking or sending text messages on a cellphone or texting someone. Unfortunately, however, many of these drivers may not hesitate to get behind the wheel when they're sleepy, but doing so could result in the same disastrous consequences.
Improving workplace safety for hot work employees
North Carolina residents employed in hot work are exposed to serious risks on a daily basis. This type of work involves any job where spark or fire-producing tools are used, such as welding, burning, brazing, grinding, cutting and soldering. Since this type of work sets off sparks, it's important that combustible or flammable materials be kept at a distance. There should also be no flammable gas leaks close to hot work equipment, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
How does holiday drinking affect your driving?
The holidays are a time of joy and merriment and usually involve alcohol. It is also a time for travel, and drinking and driving are not a good combination. It is important to know how alcohol affects your ability to drive so you can make smart choices as you attend holiday parties and celebrate the season. Do not be a part of the 1.4 percent of North Carolina residents who drive despite being intoxicated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Fatal accidents on dangerous film sets
North Carolina residents who have worked on film sets may be aware that film production can be risky. While working at unfamiliar locations for short periods of time, some producers do not prioritize safety due to time and budget constraints. In the past several years, there have been two fatal accidents that have put the issue of safety on film production sets in the news.
3 types of driver distraction
Many of us don't think twice about looking at the phone while driving, but even taking your eyes off the road for a second can be deadly. And texting or calling isn't the only type of driver distraction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists three types of driver distractions:
