Sunday, November 15, 2009

Ladders in the Fall (and Winter too)

To reach the box he stood on the top step…with no support, he lost his balance…the fall from 6-feet broke a hand, injured his back, and oh that shoulder break. What are some safe tips with ladders?

Never stand on the top rung of the ladder, or on boxes or chairs (especially with wheels). There should never be more than one person on a ladder. Keep a 3-point contact on a ladder – both feet & at least 1-hand. Never lean away from the centerline of the ladder. “The belt buckle rule” – keep your buckle within the ladder. You lean out farther than your belt buckle from ladders edge – you displace your balance making it likely to tip over.

Face the ladder and make sure you hold the ladder with at least one hand while climbing up and down. Make sure your ladder is tall enough for the job you plan to perform. But, do not lean a step ladder against a wall as you would an extension ladder. An extension ladder must be long enough to extend 3-feet above the point of contact. The ladder must sit upon even, solid, non-slip surfaces (sand does shift).

Avoid the fall...Save yourself for a nice winter.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

UV Light & Our Eyes

MOST people know the harmful effects that ultraviolet (UV) rays can have on the skin. But many are not aware of the damage that they can cause to the eyes. Possibly the most frightening aspect of UV damage is that it is cumulative, meaning the negative effects may not present themselves until years later.

A recent survey, by Transitions Optical Inc. found that although 82% of respondents knew that extended exposure to the sun could cause skin cancer, only 9% knew it could damage vision. Additionally, only 1 in 6 respondents said they wear sunglasses when they prepare for extended exposure to the sun and only approximately 1/3 said they wear a hat.

"Most of us wouldn't dream of staying outside in the sun without putting on sunscreen lotion," said Daniel D. Garrett, senior vice president of Prevent Blindness America. "But we also have to remember to wear both UV-blocking lenses and a brimmed hat to protect our eyes as well."

Save your eyes from the sun...Save your vision.