March - April 2023

March/April 2023
Check
It OuT:
2023 Safety
Survey!
page 8
Also in this issue:

Environmental, Social
& Governance 16
Gas Detection 20
Safety Training 22
Heat Stress & PPE 26
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Table of Contents - March/April 2023
COVER STORY: 2023 SAFETY STUDY

8 Safety Study: Training, PPE,
Tech, Safety Culture & More
See the results of an exclusive RDG Media study
that delves into the minds of the people who
deal with workplace safety. Topics include labor
and supply chain issues; leadership’s role in
8 safety; how ESG and EHS dovetail; and more.
CONFINED SPACES HEAT STRESS HEARING CONSERVATION

12 Avoiding Hazards 26 PPE and Heat Stress: & PROTECTION
in Confined Spaces When Protection 34 Perspectives:
Safety considerations in confined Poses a Danger Tablet-Based Hearing
spaces are particularly important PPE designed to shield the Conservation
considering OSHA’s recently wearer from hazards can inhibit Read about a state-of-the-
issued standard for construction the body’s normal processes art, tablet-based testing
work in confined spaces. for ridding itself of heat, but platform and other innovative
PPE designed specifically to solutions for hearing
ENVIRONMENTAL, keep workers cool on the job protection/conservation.
SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE can help prevent heat stress.
36 Listen Up!
16 ESG Makes a CHEMICAL-RESISTANT With the widespread use of
Stronger Business Case wireless earphones, many
APPARREL & PPE workers are requesting the
for EHS Concerns
As businesses show more interest 28 Innovations in option to listen to music. The
in aligning with the principles Chemical-Resistant PPE experts at NHCA provide
of environment, social and New versions of chemical- recommendations for
governance (ESG), there’s an resistant PPE incorporate employers to consider.
obvious overlap in concerns innovations in design to
between EHS and ESG. make them safer, more BEFORE YOU GO...
comfortable and versatile— 6 Note from the Editor
GAS DETECTION and now smarter, too. A note from Barbara
20 Live Monitoring: The Nessinger, Editor-in-Chief
WEARABLES/
Key to Elevating Real- 31 Ad Index
CONNECTED WORKERS
Time Gas Detection
With today’s live monitoring 30 Wearable Tech:
technology, safety professionals Beyond Safety
can gain the insights they The potential to maximize
need to act quickly in manufacturing operations
emergency situations—as well with connected workers is vast.
as elevate their company’s Companies have an amazing
safety programs. opportunity to implement
IoT findings as continuous
SAFETY TRAINING improvement efforts.
22 Occupational Safety
AIHA Q&A
& Health Training
All workers require awareness 32 What to EXPect at
training on the specific the AIHce EXPO
hazards they will encounter Here’s a unique look ahead
at their distinct worksites. at what can be experienced
in Phoenix or online at this 28
jam-packed event.
Front cover photo courtesy of © Andrii Yalanskyi - stock.adobe.com
4 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace

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Note from the Editor
“For safety is not a gadget but a
state of mind.”
–Eleanor Everet, Safety Expert
The March/April issue’s cover story is a

unique look into the state of mind (or minds)
of the people closely involved in workplace A RDG Media, Inc. Publication
safety. The RDG Media team, with the help of P.O. Box 529
Market Research Support Consultants, LLC, Estero, FL 33929
conducted a study to understand the current 586-227-9344
and expected usage of various products and services as they applied www.IndustrialHygienePub.com
to safety.
The article, “2023 Safety Study: Training, PPE, Tech, Safety Culture PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER
& More,” delves deeply into topics ranging from labor and supply Randy Green
chain issues; to leadership’s role in safety; to how ESG and EHS are
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
beginning to dovetail. The study provides meaningful feedback from Barbara Nessinger
the folks on the frontlines—those who are “in the trenches” of the
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
industry. Respondents represented a variety of job functions; the ma- Jacob Swindell
jority of these were EHS/safety professionals.
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
This issue also provides information on a hot topic in the industry: Lydia Stewart
environmental, social & governance (ESG). “ESG Makes a Stronger ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Business Case for EHS Concerns” discusses the overlap between EHS Kristin Green
and ESG, and how one can help the other achieve safety goals. SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR
Other topics include wearable tech & chem-resistant apparel; live Angi Hiesterman
monitoring for real-time gas detection; and occupational health & OPERATIONS/CUSTOMER SERVICE
safety training. We also kick off the beginning of warm weather with Jody Kirchoff
a look at how some PPE can pose a danger during the hazardous sum- PUBLICATION COORDINATOR
mer months—and how to mitigate the risks with smarter PPE choices Lacey Scanlan
and heat-safety awareness training. WEB DESIGN
Josh Scanlan
Hearing conservation is covered by our regular contributors at the
NHCA, who raise the question of earphone usage in the workplace LIST RENTAL
Angi Hiesterman
(Listen Up!), as well as a special Perspectives interview with the folks
at Examinetics to discuss the company’s recent launch of a unique
hearing conservation solution. INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE IN THE WORKPLACE will not be
responsible for any errors in placement or content after first run
At IHW, we strive to provide state-of-the-industry information to of ad. Publishers shall not be liable for any costs or damages if
for any reason it fails to publish advertisement. Industrial
your doorstep. I hope you enjoy this issue and that it assists you in Hygiene in the Workplace recommends that you take appropriate
your respective positions within the industry. caution before buying items sight unseen. Industrial Hygiene
in the Workplace is not responsible for misrepresentation of
advertisers. We suggest you contact your own attorney, the
Regards, Better Business Bureau, or appropriate government agencies if
you experience a problem.
Barbara Nessinger, Editor-in-Chief Randy Green, President & Group Publisher
P.S. If you are interested in contributing an article, Thought Leadership Advertising rates, deadlines, and mechanical requirements
furnished upon request. Copyright 2022 Industrial Hygiene in
or Perspectives piece, feel free to contact me at bnessinger@ the Workplace All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in part or in
whole without written consent is strictly prohibited.
workplacemhs.com.
www.facebook.com/IndustrialHygienePub/ twitter.com/IndHygienePub
www.linkedin.com/company/industrial-hygiene-in-the-workplace www.youtube.com/channel/UCdhm5vhueCpiqasMBv_qYSw

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Cover Story: 2023 Safety Study
By: Barbara T. Nessinger, Editor-in-Chief
2023 Safety Study:

Training, PPE, Tech, Safety Culture & More
© Artur - stock.adobe.com
In 2022, the RDG Media team, with the help of Market Research Supply chain issues have also naturally had an impact on the
Support Consultants, LLC, conducted a study to understand safety industry, and nearly half (47%) of respondents stated that
the current and expected usage of various products and ser- premium products that last longer have been a focal point when
vices as they applied to safety and material handling. The 2023 sourcing PPE. This clearly sends the message that PPE made to
Safety Study’s results have helped to provide detailed informa- last and stand up to daily wear-and-tear (where applicable) is an
tion on these aspects. The key objectives for this study covered important consideration. (See chart “Premium PPE Products”)
three areas, including understanding the importance of front-
line supervision safety tasks; understanding purchase plans PREMIUM PPE PRODUCTS
and spending, general products and services, and technology
focused products and services; and understanding respondents’ Focus on
purchase influence and demographic profile. Premium/Longer
Unaware/
Don’t know Lasting
Safety Culture, Labor & Supply Chain: Good News
12% PPE Products
Everyone has been somewhat affected by fluctuations in the
Yes 47%
labor market. The ongoing and wide-ranging labor shortage
Supply chain issues
has negatively affected a majority (76%) of the respondents, to
have had an impact
various degrees, with 41% saying it put their operations behind on the safety
less than three months; 12% three-six months; 3% six-twelve No 41% industry; nearly half
months; and 24% reporting it had no impact at all. of respondents say
they’re sourcing
premium products
The study found that the shortage had a lesser effect on compa- that last longer.
nies’ safety cultures. It also identified the strategies managers
are using to maintain company culture and standards of safety:
• Less than half of respondents reported How are they dealing with the supply challenges? Twenty-six
some type of impact percent use paid outside vendors to secure the necessary mate-
• 24% said that existing staffers are working rials and supplies; 24% are having existing staff work overtime
overtime to maintain desired levels to do so; and 3% have hired additional workers to deal with
• 18% of the companies involved are paying outside vendors the problem.
• 9% have made additional hires
• 6% have made reductions or changes in Safety Training: Challenges & Methods
company standards on safety, due to an inability Training employees remains paramount to safety culture, and
to keep up with the current workflow employers utilize a variety of ways to get their safety messages
across. More than seven-in-10 respondents plan to educate
new workers through communication programs with a focus
on increased training as well.
Nearly nine-in-10 respondents noted they rely on a combina-

tion of vendor support training and inside development for
implementing safety training. Interestingly, only one-in-10 are
currently using artificial intelligence (AI) as part of that safety
training implementation. Only a third of study participants said
AI is used by their companies, but 12% plan to use it within the
next year. Thirty-five percent have no plans to use it, and 32%
are unaware of what AI training is. This is a space that might be
explored and see more growth in the next few years, however.
Modern workplaces are continuing to adopt technology for safety- Two-thirds of respondents currently use software for safety,
related tasks at a significant level. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images) health and environmental management, followed by just under

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Cover Story: 2023 Safety Study
half of respondents currently recording and reporting audits • 7% said retraining is required after an
using mobile devices. (See chart “Safety Technology/Tools/ incident or unsafe situation occurs
Methods”) • 5% conduct safety training twice a month
• 15% do it once a month
SAFETY TECHNOLOGY/TOOLS/METHODS • 6% do safety training once a year
Safety Technology/Tools/Methods
Software for Safety,
Health and Environmental 65% 12% 24%
Management
Recording and
reporting audits using 45% 30% 24%
mobile devices
Predictive analytics to
identify accident patterns 29% 24% 47%
and accident potential
Employees equipped
with wearables for 21% 12% 61%
exposure monitoring
PPE embedded
with sensors 9% 24% 65%
Some of the challenges facing new employee training include

a lack of knowledge at the onset. For example, when asked As might be expected–given the various industries and facility types
the question: “What challenges/trends do you experience involved—findings about when, how and how often safety training
is done yielded a variety of answers in the 2023 Safety Study. (photo
when training and/or working with younger new hires such courtesy Adobe Stock Images)
as Millennials or GenZ,” approximately four-in-10 respon-
dents stated that new hires are not knowledgeable of new gas When it comes to new workers, more than seven-in-10 (79%)
monitoring options and traditional gas monitoring options, respondents educate them through communication programs
including bump testing and calibration methods. and increased training—71% through increased training alone,
35% using additional signage and 24% with additional visual
As might be expected–given the various industries and facility floor markings.
types involved—findings about when, how and how often safety
training is done yielded a variety of answers: Gas Detection/Monitoring
• 29% of respondents said their companies When queried about gas detection and monitoring, just over
do safety training during onboarding one-third of respondents state that the Safety Department is
responsible for establishing and main-
PORTABLE GAS DETECTION taining Grade D compressed breathing
facilities. More than half (52%) of
Most Important Features of Portable Gas Detection
respondents say they currently use
Reliability/fast
45% 19% 19% 13% 3%
portable gas detection. Among those
response times
that currently use portable gas detec-
tion, “reliability/fast response times”
Competitively
are the highest ranking features when
21% 18% 15% 18% 27%
priced purchasing portable monitors. And
leadership counts in this area: One-
Weight of
third of respondents state the senior
unit/ease of
portability
13% 19% 16% 16% 35% leadership of their organization is “very
involved” when implementing new
gas monitoring processes or purchas-
Range of gas
sensor options
13% 32% 26% 29% ing new equipment. Approximately
four-in-10 respondents have had
some type of involvement in fixed gas
Technologically
advanced/ 9% 12% 24% 27% 27%
monitoring. (See chart “Portable Gas
latest
technology Detection” )

ESG STRATEGY
Current ESG Strategy ESG Strategy In Next 24 Months
Importance of EHS Teams
and ESG Overlap
Companies overwhelmingly rely on
their EHS experts to help mitigate acci-
Yes 29%
dents and increase worker safety. A full
two-thirds of respondents state that the Yes 32% No 47%
Unaware/
EHS team in their organization is seen Don’t know
as “a strategic enabler for commercial 38%
growth and operational continuity.”

Three-quarters of respondents state
that real-time risk management for Unaware/ No 32%
both works and assets is extremely/very Don’t know
21%
important.
Not all companies are involved in

Environmental, Social & Governance in the future. (Editor’s note: For more onthe challenges of labor shortages and
(ESG) strategies, however. Only one- how ESG dovetails with EHS, see the arti- supply chain interruptions—how they
third of respondents state that their cle, “ESG Makes a Stronger Business Case implement safety and training differs,
company is actively involved with an ESG for EHS Concerns,” page 16.) including the strategies managers use to
strategy. Of those that are not actively maintain company safety culture. The
involved, just over one-quarter of respon- Positive Outlook on Safety good news is that EHS experts have an
dents believe they will be in the next 24 Overall, respondents value safety, train- increasingly large role to play in ensuring
months. (See chart “ESG Strategy”) Given ing and the importance of maintaining workers have the tools and training they
the natural overlap of ESG and EHS, this a safety culture. Depending on each need to stay safe—and remain produc-
is one area that is predicted to see growth company’s individual needs—and tive.
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March/April 2023 11
Confined Space Safety
By: Princeton Tec, Contributor
Avoiding Hazards in
Confined Spaces
Safety considerations in confined spaces are particularly
important considering OSHA’s recently issued standard for
construction work in confined spaces (Subpart AA of 29 CFR
1926). The new standard recognizes that such spaces can present
physical and atmospheric hazards that can be avoided, if recog-
nized and addressed prior to entry. It is designed to eliminate
potentially deadly hazards by requiring employers to determine
what kinds of spaces their workers are in; what hazards could
be there; and how those hazards should be made safe (including
the use of headlamps, flashlights and other lighting equipment
that carry the proper safety ratings). Safety considerations in confined spaces are particularly important
considering OSHA’s recently issued standard for construction work in
confined spaces. The intrinsically safe Vizz II headlamp, by Princeton Tec,
Industrial plants have a duty to protect employees by providing meets the requirements [Classes I, II, III; Divisions 1,2; and Groups A-G].
a safe work environment and the right PPE required for the job. (photo courtesy Princeton Tec)
However, despite various PPE options, many companies fail to
supply or specify important lighting tools—namely, headlamps. operating and maintaining machinery or assessing its condition.
Unfortunately, the lack of suitable headlamps can lead to seri- Headlamps are also necessary for safe, efficient personnel move-
ous, even deadly, accidents in hazardous locations. ment throughout the plant, particularly in confined or restricted
spaces. At sites with flammable gases, vapors, liquids, materials
Therefore, in production, processing or maintenance settings or dusts on the premises or in the air, having a headlamp that
where the environment is inherently volatile, headlamps should does not generate a spark is critical.
carry the proper certification for various classes, divisions and
groups of materials. When a headlamp is rated for all these However, despite meeting OSHA’s definition of PPE, “equip-
options, it essentially means it is certified as safe for use in most ment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious
hazardous environments. workplace injuries and illnesses,” headlamps are often not
included in corporate budgets for PPE. As a result, workers may
be left to purchase their own headlamps from industry supply
or hardware stores. Unfortunately, if they overemphasize price
and choose products that lack necessary options, the units may
be unsafe to use for some tasks, settings or conditions through-
out the plant. This could open the company to potential liability.
To protect personnel in any work environment and to defend

against such liability, a growing number of industrial safety
officers are including or specifying headlamps in the company
budget as PPE.
“It is safer for industrial plants to provide suitable headlamps

upfront rather than leaving it up to employees to make their
own purchases. However, department approval of only intrinsi-
cally safe product would handle the issue. Preventing even one
serious injury, fire or explosion would pay for any implemen-
tation,” said Scott Colarusso, General Manager and Co-Owner,
Intrinsically safe headlamps can not only provide up to 10 hours of light
without a battery change, but also have superior resistance to common,
All Hands Fire Equipment & Training, a Neptune City, NJ,
potentially dangerous, industrial chemicals and solvents. (photo courtesy supplier of fire safety equipment to various industries that has
Princeton Tec) equipped and trained thousands of firefighters nationwide.
When Hands-Free Matters When companies supply intrinsically safe headlamps, which are
As a tool, headlamps are essential when hands-free lighting is specifically designed not to be a source of ignition in hazardous
required in low-light areas for a wide range of tasks, such as zones, this protects workers wherever they need to go in the

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Confined Space Safety
plant from serious, even potentially lethal, accidents. Essentially, According to Navarro, among CWR Wholesale Distribution’s
everyone is covered, and the chance of mishap eliminated. wide range of industrial customers, the motivation for budget-
ing and supplying intrinsically safe headlamps and lighting as
“Without safety certified headlamps appropriate for the appli- PPE is to prevent potential liability.
cation, industrial facilities are exposed to potential liability if
an incident occurs. By supplying workers with headlamps “With an intrinsically safe headlamp, you are meeting the stan-
that are rated for any hazardous environment [that could be dard and enabling employees to work in the safest possible
encountered in the plant], companies can prevent the problem,” conditions with the most up-to-date equipment,” said Navarro.
said Colarusso. “Now the technology is at a better price point than it was five
years ago. So, it is affordable for corporate safety budgets.”
Mandating Greater Safety
At industrial worksites, headlamps enhance personnel safety
and efficiency since wherever they look the lighting goes with
them, leaving their hands free. With multiple beam modes,
these devices are designed to be easily operable even when
workers wear heavy gloves. Typically, the units are waterproof
and chemically resistant, ready for use in rugged surround-
ings, which may include getting thrown into a truck toolbox
or dropped. Still, the devices must provide ample light for a
sufficient “burn time” to last an entire work shift without a
change of batteries.
Across a range of industries, however, typical headlamps can

be a dangerous source of ignition, if workers unwittingly enter
a hazardous area or are exposed to flammable materials or
conditions.
“Whether for OSHA, Zone 0 or state standards, intrinsically

safe products … help industrial safety officials ensure that all
the bases are covered. So, there is nothing from the lighting Because headlamps can be dropped or bumped in industrial settings,
that could spark a potential fire or explosion in a work envi- it is important that the equipment is designed to reliably withstand
rough handling. Some manufacturers make headlamps with durable,
ronment,” said John Navarro, a purchasing agent for Bayville, thermoplastic material designed to withstand drops and rough handling.
NJ-based CWR Wholesale Distribution, a supplier to various (photo courtesy Princeton Tec)
industries including automotive, consumer electronics, oil and
gas, and marine. Previously, Navarro was a nationally registered Many of Navarro’s industrial customers are willing to spend a
paramedic and certified New Jersey State Hazardous Material little more for higher rated, compliant, intrinsically safe head-
Technician. lamps. “Our industrial customers want to know their plant
personnel can safely use their intrinsically safe headlamps any-
Because headlamps can be dropped or bumped in industrial where. Safety committees do not want to worry about where
settings, it is also important that the equipment is designed to personnel may use the units, if it is safe to use under hazardous
reliably withstand rough handling. In response, some man- conditions,” concluded Navarro.
ufacturers now make headlamps with durable thermoplastic
material designed to withstand drops and rough handling, While industrial manufacturing, processing and maintenance
including being thrown into a truck bed. The units not only carries some inherent risk, industrial plants seeking to improve
provide up to 10 hours of light without a battery change but safety can do so by providing workers with ultra-safe headlamps
also have superior resistance to common, potentially dangerous, that ensure compliance. So, as the need for industrial safety only
industrial chemicals and solvents. grows along with stricter regulation, facilities will increasingly
make headlamps a mandatory part of any PPE budget or safety
The latest models also offer anti-static properties and safety program to minimize operational risk and liability.
features, such as a mechanical locking mechanism that requires
a tool to open the battery compartment. This prevents users [Princeton Tec is a producer of ETL and UL-approved lighting
from inadvertently opening the battery housing in a hazardous products and manufactures headlamps that meet strict global
environment, which could not only result in electric shock, but safety requirements. For more information, call 1-800-257-9080,
also potentially ignition or explosion. email questions@princetontec.com or visit princetontec.com.]

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Environmental, Social & Governance
By: Dan McLean, Contributor
ESG Makes a
Stronger Business
Case for EHS Concerns © Parradee - stock.adobe.com
As businesses show more interest in aligning with the princi- “As ESG reporting becomes more regulated—which is already
ples of environment, social and governance (ESG), there’s an happening around the world—you’re going to need verifiable
obvious overlap in concerns between EHS and ESG, and the data in your ESG reports,” Stacy added. “EHS compliance
one will most definitely help the other. data can feed into that. It’s data you’re already collecting and
compiling.”
“With ESG, there’s a triple bottom line—profit, people and
the planet—that will be demanded not only by the internal Within the three ESG broad pillars, much of “environmental” is
stakeholder, but the consumer and those looking to invest as also already well-reported to shareholders through EHS efforts.
shareholders,” said Intelex Vice President of Health and Safety, These generally have included greenhouse gas, energy and water
Scott Gaddis. conservation, wastewater, waste and water management, pol-
lution and compliance.
“The ability to position EHS as a business partner with an
increased value for the ethical and moral view of EHS—and in Other areas, possibly new to some in EHS, will have an increased
support of ESG efforts—is a good thing.” focus. In “social,” expect to see emphasis placed on chemical,
biological and radiological impacts on people who work in
The Intersection of ESG and EHS communities with established businesses.
No doubt most EHS professionals would rightly declare the
work they’ve been doing has aligned with many ESG principles Gaddis stated there’s a solid intersection within “governance”
all along. However, Gaddis noted that some in senior busi- in procuring materials and managing risk. He noted that, for
ness leadership were too often not interested in EHS concerns, EHS professionals, their deep expertise in risk management
unless there was a significant miss in compliance and targets, will be a skill relied upon by organizations for ESG programs.
and they typically only looked at a few metrics to measure
success. The outline of ESG gives EHS practitioners a plat- Chris Ward, a former Regulator and Principal Health And
form to be a business partner that’s not simply judged from a Safety Inspector in the UK, and a former member of the British
cost-avoidance function, but as a real partner in the business. Standards Institute committee, says EHS processes provide data
for disclosure in ESG operations reporting.
“Their work affects the non-financial impacts investors and
shareholders are beginning to demand and an ethical approach
to managing businesses,” Gaddis stated.
There’s clear common ground and intersection between ESG

criteria and EHS. In his LinkedIn article, KPMG India Manager
Phani Prasad M. noted, “In its essence, EHS is more a subset of
ESG, as ‘E’ is a common aspect, while occupational health and
employee safety together with CSR (corporate social respon-
sibility) comprise the ‘S’ aspect of ESG.”
“There are all these topics that are the same for EHS and ESG,”
said Jillian Stacy, Head of Global Expert Services at Enhesa.
“By looking at what you’re already doing well…you have a nice
starting point. There’s already knowledge that can be gleaned
just by looking at EHS compliance (data and activities) to help
drive what makes sense for ESG initiatives and what makes There is clear common ground and intersection between ESG criteria and
sense for ESG milestones. EHS. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images)

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Environmental, Social & Governance
The ESG Opportunity for EHS Practitioners

Many of today’s investors are making bets on companies that
are “good for the planet” and doing their part to protect people
and the environment. Likewise, more and more consumers
want to put their money and loyalty behind such brands.
Research shows nearly two-thirds (64%) of Americans say they

would pay more for sustainable products, and 78% of people
are more likely to purchase a product that is clearly labeled
as environmentally friendly. What’s more, 77% of Americans
say they are concerned about the environmental impact of the
products they buy.
The Social Science Research Network (SSRN) observed that,

The outline of ESG gives EHS practitioners a platform to be a business “while corporate sustainability and ESG investing are increas-
partner that’s not simply judged from a cost-avoidance function, but as ingly front and center for U.S. companies,” there is a severe
a real partner in the business. (photo Adobe Stock Images) lack of relevant expertise among board members of large U.S.
“Through the implementation of and adherence to international companies as only 29% of more than 1,100 Fortune 100 board
standards in relation to these areas (of environment, social and directors examined have relevant ESG credentials. Help is
governance)—for example, ISO 14001 Environmental, ISO needed, and it’s a significant opportunity for EHS profession-
45001 Occupational Health and Safety and ISO 45003:2021 als to step in.
Psychosocial Risks —EHS practitioners can demonstrate on-
going processes of continual improvement in these areas,” he “Those responsible for talking about ESG at the highest level
said. “Also, by ensuring their procurement and supply chains don’t understand ESG enough to know that it is EHS in many
are in conformity with these standards, investors will be reas- cases,” said Trevor Bronson, a Corporate Strategy Associate
sured of the sustainability, conformity and continuity of these and Senior Product Marketing Manager at Intelex. “A lot of the
policies throughout an organization’s areas of operation.” things they talk about (regarding ESG) are ultimately managed
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on a day-to-day basis by the EHS department. ESG in many other reports published by the company that may contain
cases is EHS.” relevant ESG information? Who is receiving these? Is your
company a leader or laggard?
The ESG metrics that investors and businesses often seek already 3. Understand what industry peers are doing. What are the
exist in EHS dashboards, reports and collected data. It’s simply ESG issues within your industry, and are you aware of your
a matter of ensuring its availability, comprehensiveness and company’s ESG posture relative to competitors?
accuracy for the various stakeholders, Bronson advised. 4. Assess the capabilities and limits of current technology.
Can your EHS technology help achieve your organization’s
“To contribute to ESG performance is absolutely bringing some- stated ESG goals? Can you track progress to those goals,
thing to the organization, because it improves your standing and are you doing appropriate follow-up and preventative
as a company for everyone that’s interested in it,” he added. actions? Are your solutions tied to other ESG systems? How
“Pursuing opportunities in ESG and seeking to improve a busi- can technology help you? What are the gaps you need to
ness’s ESG metrics gives EHS professionals an opportunity to fill? Do you have the right tools?
assume strategic thinking within their organizations.” 5. Be vocal about the role EHS can and should play.
Remember that leadership in most companies lacks ESG
Bronson expects ESG concerns will provide a clear business expertise. EHS professionals are much more visible today
case for increasing EHS budgets because of new mandates and in what they do. The metrics they collect will be much
requirements. He added that there are five key things EHS prac- more impactful to a business. You should look to leverage
titioners can do to support ESG efforts for their organizations: existing EHS datasets for ESG reporting—it exists on the
1. Get educated on the ESG world. It’s full of new acronyms EHS devices and software that are already in use.
with which EHS professionals need to become familiar. It’s
important to be knowledgeable about general ESG rules About the Author
and to understand who the key ESG stakeholders for your Dan McLean is a Senior Content Marketing Manager at
company are and the material issues for your organization Intelex Technologies. [Get the full story on how EHS sup-
and stakeholders. ports ESG reporting and advances the careers of safety
2. Understand the company’s ESG posture. What are your professionals by downloading the Intelex Insight Report,
organization’s stated ESG goals? Are there annual and What Every EHS Practitioner Should Know About ESG.]
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March/April 2023 19
Gas Detection
By: Cynthia Horn, Contributor
Live Monitoring:
The Key to Elevating
Real-Time Gas Detection
With automatic status updates, workers can focus on the
Across any plant operation, safety managers and industrial job at hand, improving their safety and productivity—and
hygienists play a huge role in making sure everyone goes home safety personnel can rest assured that no alert will go
at the end of the day. They’re constantly keeping their finger on unnoticed. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images)
the pulse of operations—meaning the term “real-time detection”
isn’t new. so users can easily share alarms and gas readings between work-
ers and safety managers in real time, making it easier to respond
However, the term real-time detection has morphed signifi- to gas hazards, panic alarms or man-down alarms quickly.
cantly over the years. Once, safety professionals relied on flame
safety lamps. Later, in the 1980s, real-time gas detection became To elevate safety programs, managers can even receive this
synonymous with electronic monitoring equipment. Today, the information directly to their own gas detector or use remote
introduction of devices supported by the Industrial Internet of live monitoring options to see readings instantly on a phone or
Things (IIoT) and robust live monitoring software solutions are laptop through real-time alerts, emails or text messages.
what most professionals rely on.
Through live monitoring, safety managers and industrial
With today’s live monitoring technology, safety professionals hygienists can also see where personnel are consistently facing
can gain the insights they need to act quickly in emergency hazardous exposure levels so they can drive proactive safety
situations. But what else can live monitoring do to elevate safety improvements to prevent accidents or injuries.
programs?
Live monitoring software, for example, can mark the location
Real-Time Alerts and Emails and Texts: Oh My! of an area where workers are constantly experiencing exposures
Real-time detection today relies heavily on IIoT technology and by connecting to pre-placed beacons or generating heat maps.
bespoke software solutions. These developments have made it This information is then sent to the cloud in real time to indicate
any hazards, which can
then be communicated
to stakeholders via email
or text.
With peer-to-peer, sat-

ellite, wi-fi and cellular
alert options, users
can also create a more
robust safety program
by enabling team mem-
bers to look more deeply
into what’s happening
around their site. This
includes alarm reports
highlighting who had
which gas monitor; if
With today’s live monitoring technology, safety professionals can gain the insights they need to act quickly
in emergency situations—as well as elevate their company’s safety programs. (Photo courtesy Industrial
Scientific Corporation)

they were exposed to any hazards; where the exposure came from; and more.
This can help further increase situational awareness and decrease emer-
gency response times by ensuring your gas monitors always have a reliable
connection.
While deep insights are important for your safety program, the ability to access
real-time data, such as gas readings or emergency alerts, from anywhere with
emails and texts, is key in ensuring you aren’t leaving workers high and dry.
Tracking Alerts 24/7, Even When You’re Asleep

Real-time alerts and notifications are great when they can be acted on instantly,
but what happens if a safety professional is in a meeting or dead cell zone?
What about when safety teams are at home and asleep, but there are still
workers who operate around-the-clock? What happens to employees in
different time zones?
Some companies aren’t equipped with internal staff that can guarantee reliable
monitoring and response times, if something happens to their around-the-
clock workers. However, by adding a 24/7 professional monitoring service,
in addition to IIoT-backed equipment and other live monitoring solutions,
industrial hygienists and safety managers can easily fill this gap.
A 24/7 professional monitoring service can vary wildly based on a facility’s

needs, so how does it work? In general, once the service is connected to an
IIoT-backed device, any alerts will be sent to both on-site safety managers,
as well as the professional monitoring service, which will respond according
to a user’s established escalation plan.
When creating an escalation plan, the facility’s safety managers and industrial
hygienists should determine it to ensure that every alert is addressed exactly
how they want—including escalation plans based on who the user is; which
type of alarm has gone off; and more.
For example, it could be established that, if there is a man-down or a panic

alarm, the professional monitoring service will call the user’s cell phone. If
there’s no response, they will call 911 and provide the user’s last known loca-
tion. In other instances, the established escalation plan could look like calling
the user’s phone and, if there’s no response, calling the team lead, supervisor,
etc., until the situation is appropriately handled.
Implementing a professional monitoring service, in addition to live moni-

toring solutions, can help ensure everyone stays safe on the job—no matter
the time of day. It also eliminates the need for manual check-ins with lone
workers, thanks to automatic status updates. With these automatic status
updates, workers can focus on the job at hand, improving their safety and
productivity—and safety personnel can rest assured that no alert will go
unnoticed.
[Cynthia Horn is an Application Specialist at Industrial Scientific.] ®
Want to contribute to Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace? Let us know if you

have an interest in writing an article for an upcoming issue.
Contact: Barbara Nessinger, Editor-In-Chief, bnessinger@workplacemhs.com
March/April 2023 21
Safety Training
By: Henry E. Payne, Ph.D., Contributor
Occupational
Safety and
Health Training © amorn - stock.adobe.com
All workers need occupational safety and health training. More or an emergency exit blocked by boxes and trash. Other haz-
pointedly, they require training on the specific hazards they will ards may be best addressed by changes in work processes or
encounter at their distinct worksites. Workers are frequently equipment. Supervisory personnel typically implement these
injured or made ill on the job because they encountered job types of changes.
hazards they were either not aware of, or they lack training on
how to safely respond. Awareness training on job hazards is Benefits of Training
essential in helping keep workers safe. Occupational safety and health training is also good for employ-
ers. Injured or ill workers tend to miss work for considerable
Workers in offices, retail, fast food, healthcare and delivery, periods of time. In some cases, they never return to work,
as well as workers in manufacturing and construction, face requiring the hiring and training of a new employee—which
hazards specific to their worksites. Safety and health training is costly to employers. Additionally, knowing fellow workers
must be targeted to distinct worksite hazards. Initial aware- have been exposed to hazards, resulting in an injury or illness,
ness training is a great way to start new workers to become can have a negative impact on other workers’ morale and reduce
aware of hazards they may encounter, but it is not enough. All productivity.
workers need updated training, at least on an annual basis, to
be reminded of the hazards they face, as well as introduced to An injured, ill or deceased worker can also have an impact on
new hazards they might encounter, as workers’ jobs evolve and company profits. Worker’s compensation insurance increases
include additional tasks. with work injuries and illness. Worker life insurance premiums
increase with worker fatalities. These increased costs reduce
Worker training should include both a recognition of spe- profits and often lead to increased pressure on remaining work-
cific job-related hazards and training on how to respond to ers to increase productivity—further reducing worker morale.
encountered hazards. Some hazards can be corrected when Simple hazard awareness and annual update training can go
encountered by workers, such as an overloaded electrical outlet a long way in avoiding many injuries, illnesses and fatalities.
Know Your Certifications

In the field of occupational safety and health, certifications are
important and are widely recognized as a measure of expert
proficiency. But it is essential that individuals and organiza-
tions understand the difference between a course completion
certificate, a certificate program and a recognized professional
certification.
Professional credentials, also known as professional certifica-

tions, are earned and are awarded by recognized professional
organizations to verify one’s professional qualifications and
competence. They attest to a specified process and successful
completion of criteria established and maintained by the pro-
fessional organizations.
Professional Certifications
Certification is a formal process that recognizes and vali-
Workers in offices, retail, fast food, healthcare and delivery, as well dates one’s qualifications and knowledge on a specific subject.
as workers in manufacturing and construction, face hazards which are Individuals earn certifications to assure they are qualified to
specific to their worksites. Safety and health training must be targeted to perform a job or task through the acknowledgement of edu-
distinct worksite hazards. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images)
cational and professional achievement. Certificates verify that

Safety Training
certificate holders have achieved a specified, baseline level of Certifications are earned from a professional society or board
competence in a specific subject area and assures employers and must be renewed periodically, generally through completed
that the individuals are capable of handling the challenges their continuing education units. Widely recognized certifications
job responsibilities present. in the field of occupational safety and health include Certified
Safety Professional (CSP), Construction Health
and Safety Technician (CHST) and Certified
Industrial Hygienist (CIH).
The Board of Certified Safety Professionals

(BCSP) establishes and certifies the technical
competency criteria for safety, health and envi-
ronmental practitioners, including the CSP and
CHST credentials.
The CSP credential provides safety practi-

tioners a path to greater recognition and
career opportunities, offering a certification
that demonstrates the individual has met the
requirements for specific standards of safety,
health and environmental knowledge and
experience. The CSP credential is often con-
sidered the industry’s most recognized safety,
health and environmental certification.
The CHST credential is for construction job

Worker training should include both a recognition of specific job-related hazards and sites’ safety, health and environment special-
training on how to respond to encountered hazards. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images) ists. Responsibilities for safety, health and
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environment might be all or part of a CHST’s job duties, which programs related to their field, which supplements or enhances
may cover one or more significant construction projects or job an individual’s prior education. Many colleges, universities and
sites. Candidates may work for an owner, general contractor, professional training organizations offer certificate programs.
subcontractor or firm involved in construction.
Accreditation
The Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) certification is the Accreditation is an essential component for any training
premier certification for occupational health and safety pro- provider. Being evaluated and accredited by an independent,
fessionals around the world. It is also considered the top third-party organization, using accepted standards for educa-
certification for indoor air-quality consultants. This most tion and training, ensures the training demonstrates a high level
prestigious certification is offered by the American Board of validity, integrity and quality. This is an essential component
of Industrial Hygiene (BGC) and is accredited through the in many fields in which professional certifications are preva-
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National lent. This is especially true in the field of occupational safety
Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). and health, as it relates to professional certifications, such as
Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Construction Health and
Certificates Safety Technician (CHST) and Certified Industrial Hygienist
A course completion certificate indicates an individual has (CIH), which require ongoing Continuing Education Units
successfully completed an academic or training course. This (CEUs) in order maintain these certifications.
is not considered a professional certification. The certificate of
completion is issued at the end of the training, and no addi- Training is an important component in keeping workers safe
tional renewals are required. Many colleges, universities and on the job. It is also helpful in advancing careers of safety
professional training organizations issue course completion professionals. Be sure to find the appropriate training and
certificates. accredited training provider to meet your needs for your work
and career.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs consist of multiple courses related to one [Henry E. Payne, Ph.D., is President of Global OSHA, which
particular aspect or topic area. This is not considered a profes- provides safety and health training programs and courses
sional certification. Individuals typically complete certificate worldwide.]
March/April 2023 25
Heat Stress
By: Maureen Paraventi, Chief Editor, Workplace Material Handling & Safety
PPE and Heat Stress:

When Protection
Poses a Danger
PPE designed to shield the wearer from hazards may inhibit the body’s
normal processes for ridding itself of heat, as through sweating. (photo
courtesy Adobe Stock Images)
There’s no question that personal protective equipment (PPE), managers take into account the type and length of time of the
along with engineering controls and safe work practices, is vital PPE being worn; the individual worker’s work rate, fitness level,
to helping workers avoid injuries—or worse. Nonetheless, under hydration level and acclimatization; and the environmental
certain circumstances, PPE can actually increase the chances conditions, including the heat and humidity, radiant heat from
of someone suffering harm while on the job, by making those sun if outdoors, and wind speed if outdoors.
who wear it more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses.
Brenda Jacklitsch, MS, a Health Scientist with NIOSH’s
Although manufacturers continue to develop new, lighter Education and Information Division, says that acclimatization
weight materials for protective clothing, preventing workers should be based, in part, on the employee’s experience level.
from coming into contact with chemical, radiological, physical, New workers should spend only about an hour and a half in the
electrical, mechanical and other workplace hazards can still heat during their first 8-hour shift. Their exposure time should
require garments like coveralls, vests and full body suits that be increased gradually, by no more than a 20% increase per day.
are substantial. Those, in addition to head protection, respira- Experienced workers on an 8-hour shift can spend up to four
tors, face shields, boots and gloves, can all be contributors to hours in the heat on the first hot day; five hours on the second;
heat stress. Heavy clothing designed to shield the wearer from and about six and a half hours on the third day. Jacklitsch says
chemical, electrical or physical hazards may: most healthy workers who are adequately hydrated and get
• Inhibit the body’s normal processes for ridding sufficient rest breaks should be able to tolerate eight hours in
itself of heat, as through sweating the heat by the fourth day.1
• Make the body retain heat and moisture
• Result in greater exertion on the part of workers Wearing PPE designed specifically to keep workers cool on
who are performing physical tasks. Carrying the the job can help prevent heat stress. This kind of gear includes
extra weight of PPE makes muscles work harder water- or air-cooled garments and cooling vests.
and increases the body’s heat production.
During rest breaks, heavy, non-cooling PPE should be removed,
Exposure to hot environments and extreme heat can result in and the worker should receive hydration. Cooling accessories
illnesses, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat syncope, like cold packs and cool, wet towels should be applied, in order
fainting or passing out, heat cramps, and heat rashes or death. to reduce the body’s core temperature.
Certain industries and work environments harbor heat stress If possible, rest breaks should be taken in an air-conditioned
hazards year-round. In other industries, workers who pre- room or shaded area. According to NIOSH, “Core body tem-
dominantly toil out-of-doors will face increasingly hotter perature decreases relatively slowly, and simply stopping hard
temperatures during the summer months. High humidity poses work will not result in an immediate decrease. Therefore,
an even greater physiological burden on the body. What are increasing the rate of heat removal from the body would reduce
the steps employers and safety managers can take to reduce the risk for heat-related illness. Using wearable personal cool-
the risk of heat-related illness among PPE-wearing employees? ing systems could reduce the time required to lower core body
temperature.”2 Note: cooling systems should be relatively new
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and in good condition, in order to effectively transfer heat from
(NIOSH) recommends that when developing work/rest cycles, the body to the environment.
1 https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2014/07/14/acclimatization/
2 https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/heat_burden.html

Watch for the Signs of Heat Stress
Workers who are exposed to hot and humid conditions should
be monitored for symptoms of heat stress and physiological
strain. They include:
• Thirst (although NIOSH notes that thirst is not
a reliable indicator of hydration status)
• Headache
• Urine that is dark yellow and has a strong odor
• Flushed skin
• Heavy sweating
• Fatigue (heat exhaustion)
• An increase in body temperature
• Dizziness or loss of orientation
• Decreased cognitive function (decreased
situational awareness, poor judgement) It’s important for workers to look out for each other for signs of heat-
• Loss of balance, leading to an increased related illnesses. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock Images)
risk of slips, trips and falls
• Temporary circulatory failure while standing upright, 4. Take time to rest and cool down. Sit somewhere
with symptoms of light-headedness or dizziness cool, rest and rehydrate frequently.
NIOSH has a poster aimed at preventing heat-related illness Heat stress is a concern in many work industries where employ-
available for download at: https://tinyurl.com/4enn5e5d. It is ees are exposed to high levels of heat and humidity. Extra care
aimed at workers and covers the basics in four steps: must be taken with workers who must wear heavy PPE while
1. Take time to acclimatize. Work shorter shifts until your performing their duties.
body has had time to adjust to the heat.
2. Stay well hydrated. Drink often—before you get thirsty. [Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in WMHS’s April
3. Watch for signs of heat-related illnesses. Designate a buddy 2022 issue. For the original article, go to: https://tinyurl.
and ask how they feel periodically. com/5ee6y2me.]
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March/April 2023 27
Chemical-Resitant Apparrel & PPE
By: Omar Vikin, Contributor
Focus on Safety Drives Innovation

in Chemical-Resistant PPE
Worker health and safety is a large priority for employers, and In particular, there is a great need
it is not just for compliance reasons. Companies realize that for proper hand protection. Hands
investing in human capital enhances long-term business per- can be a workers’ most valuable tool,
formance; mitigates workers’ risk from dangerous situations; so using the right protection is vital to
and creates value for employees. employees’ livelihood and to companies’
success.
One of the leading causes of work-related injuries is exposure
to dangerous chemicals. Workers can come into contact with Chemical-resistant gloves are crucial
tens of thousands of chemicals every day, with many presumed within all industries and workplaces that
to be harmful, and only a small number regulated to be han- handle hazardous substances, not only
dled in the workplace. According to the Occupational Safety due to the wide range of chemicals, but
and Health Administration (OSHA), American workers suffer also because of cut and puncture risks.
more than 190,000 illnesses and 50,000 deaths annually related Many chemical-resistant gloves are thick
to chemical exposures. and slippery, leading to poor dexterity,
hand fatigue and discomfort, which
Protect with PPE presents a risk for workers’ safety, pro-
Personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect against ductivity and job satisfaction.
chemical exposure for workers. Some of the biggest users of
chemical-resistant PPE are those working for industrial com- Hand protection solutions that provide the following are ideal.
panies in automotive and chemical manufacturing, oil and gas,
food processing and metal fabrication. Employers should take • High chemical protection: First and foremost, the protective
the time to evaluate their PPE to ensure it properly protects barriers should shield hands against chemicals, irritants or
employees from chemical hazards at their work sites. other potentially hazardous materials.
• Reliable cut resistance: It is not uncommon for workers who
come into contact with hazardous chemicals to also work
with sharp knives or machinery. Employees working with
hazardous chemicals should look for gloves that provide
protection against lacerations as well.
• Enhanced wet and dry grip: Whether working in wet or dry
environments, workers should opt for chemical-resistant
gloves with enhanced grip to reduce the effort needed to hold
and handle tools—minimizing hand fatigue and increasing
worker productivity.
• Improved dexterity: When working in chemical
environments or when extensive use over long periods
of time is required, good dexterity is necessary to enable
workers to get their jobs done efficiently. Gloves that are not
too thick and allow for a broad range of motion increase the
ease of movement for workers performing tasks.
• Heightened comfort: A common issue workers face when
wearing PPE is discomfort after continuous use, either from
the gear being stiff or non-breathable. For chemical-resistant
gloves, employers should look for options that incorporate
ergonomic designs for hand support and moisture dispersion
technology for sweat management—to help workers’ hands
stay dry and comfortable.
Chemical-resistant gloves are crucial within all industries and workplaces

that handle hazardous substances. (photo courtesy Honeywell)

Some manufacturers put scannable QR codes directly on PPE to give users easy access to
information at their fingertips, such as product specifications—including chemical data,
coating and lining materials—as well as instructions for use. (photo courtesy Honeywell)
High Tech Meets Enhanced Safety In recent years, there

New versions of chemical-resistant PPE incorporate innova- has been increased
tions in design to make them safer, more comfortable and awareness of the
versatile—and now smarter, too. Some manufacturers are importance of work-
putting scannable QR codes directly on PPE to give users place health and
easy access to information at their fingertips, such as product safety, and com-
specifications—including chemical data, coating and lining panies are feeling
materials—as well as instructions for use. By making this infor-pressure from their
mation readily available to workers, they can help ensure they employees, customers and other stakeholders to improve their
are using the right product for the task at hand. practices—including providing effective PPE. Overall, innova-
tions in PPE’s design make it more. effective and comfortable,
Of course, gloves are not the only type of PPE needed when while also improving worker safety and reducing the cost of
handling dangerous chemicals. Depending on the type of ownership. Investing in occupational safety and health mit-
work, workers may also need to wear protective suits, cover- igates risk, increases productivity and, ultimately, enhances
alls, hoods, gowns, overshoes and air-filtering systems. When company performance.
choosing chemical-resistant clothing and hand protection, it
is important to make sure the PPE is resistant to the specific [Omar Vikin is General Manager of High Risk Personal Protective
chemicals workers will encounter and that they are highly dura- Equipment at Honeywell.]
ble. Chemical-resistant PPE is subject to harsh conditions, so
choosing equipment that is able to withstand repeated exposure
to chemicals is necessary.
EW The next generation

N of noise monitoring
CEL-620 Series Enhanced Digital Sound Level Meter
 Time history storage (1s to 30min intervals)
 Voice notes
 GPS
 Compact, rugged design
 Single large measurement range
 Long battery life
 Automatic calibration function
Website: www.casellasolutions.com
Email Interest: info-us@casellasolutions.com
March/April 2023 29
Wearables/Connected Workers
By: Tom West, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, COSS, Contributor
Four Ways Wearable Tech

Goes Beyond Safety
The potential to maximize manufacturing operations with
“More than 70% of companies are still stuck in ‘pilot purga- connected workers is vast. Companies have an amazing
opportunity to implement IoT findings as continuous
tory’” when adopting digital technologies, according to the improvement efforts. (photo courtesy Adobe Stock)
World Economic Forum. From our perspective, automation
efforts frequently stall because they fail to interact with a plant’s
For example, temperature and humidity can fluctuate sig-
most important asset—its people. Connected workers are a nificantly throughout a manufacturing space. IoT-equipped
massive opportunity to increase the breadth of intelligent sen- workers can reveal variations that need to be addressed, such
sors throughout a manufacturing facility. as turning on an air handler or closing overhead ventilation.
All of this could be done without any active intervention—no
Using only a small device worn in an armband, an entire manual reports of thermal discomfort or overriding building
workforce can automatically and continuously capture envi- automation controls.
ronmental, motion and other observations from the front line
and location/proximity data. 2) Assembly Line Speed
What if your feet per minute could intuit when the rate needs
“We need to recognize that there is an interplay between to slow down?
equipment and people. This relationship has a direct impact
on product quality, safety and health,” explained Gabe Glynn, There are scenarios when production can’t and shouldn’t
MākuSafe’s CEO and Co-founder. “By integrating workers on maintain a static speed. But an automatic conveyor runs at
the IoT network, we can uncover insights that have powerful a predetermined pace, regardless of staffing levels. When
implications on long-term safety, productivity and efficiency.” there’s a mismatch between the rate and crew, it creates an
additional work burden on those present. This can lead to stress,
Connected workers can close the gap on your goals for indus- decreased efficiency and increased safety risks. If workers don’t
trial Internet of Things (IIOT). Employees with industrial feel empowered to speak up, their situation may go unnoticed
wearables generate a rich stream of data that can be mined to and unresolved.
uncover new paths to operational efficiency. Employees can
go beyond workplace safety and make tactical improvements With IoT-connected workers, however, manufacturing pro-
to environmental quality, assembly line speed, equipment per- cesses can automatically align with the number of people
missions and productivity. detected. If someone steps away for a break or is temporar-
ily pulled to another line, the system will know and adjust
1) Environmental Quality accordingly.
What if every worker in your building was collecting environ-
mental data, no matter their location? The conveyor can similarly modulate its rate if a team is short-
staffed for a shift. Conversely, data may prove which specific
The drawback of most environmental sensors is that they are teams work more productively together. Proximity data could
stationary. Mounted to a wall or ceiling, their measurement show where workers are, and who they are close to. That could
radius is limited. But place these instruments on workers, and be compared to production/output quantities and reveal that
now environmental readings are entirely mobile and provide this team of three people has higher output than most teams
real-time visibility into the conditions each individual is experi- of five.
encing. Metrics are generated throughout your facility wherever
employees are positioned. Those findings can then be integrated 3) Equipment Permissions
into a HVAC sequence to automatically regulate temperature, What if your manufacturing equipment could verify or
humidity and ventilation. decline users?

This is essential for machines that need mandatory training and against productivity metrics. It could lead to a discovery that a
certifications, such as CNC machines or forklifts. Most already focused ergonomics assessment or targeted training is needed.
have IoT capabilities for maintenance issues—it’s not a stretch It might even prompt an evaluation of workstation design
to add an authorization step. or process reengineering to avoid the risk of injuries, such
as cumulative stress, strain and exertion, or musculoskeletal
For example, a worker approaches a forklift for use. A sensor disorders (MSDs). Without worker-generated data providing
registers the employee and verifies if their certification is cur- a clue to investigate, these low-cost and simple measures might
rent. If it’s not, the machine will remain locked. It’s the same have been missed.
concept as an access control badge—but applied to equipment
clearance. The potential to maximize manufacturing operations with con-
nected workers is vast. Companies have an amazing opportunity
This application can also be used as a form of intelligent spatial to implement IoT findings as continuous improvement efforts.
awareness. An approved user is operating a robotic arm, but
what happens if an unauthorized person enters this zone? The “There are undiscovered elements that impact a worker’s safety
proximity sensor could detect this new worker and instruct and health, simply because we haven’t measured them yet.
the machine to stop, automatically eliminating a potential Remember that there was once a time when asbestos and lead
injury risk. paint weren’t a concern,” Glynn stressed. “Our knowledge is
always changing. For example, how can we act on the growing
evidence that suggests sound exposure can negatively impact
heart health? Or might it be possible to gain leading indica-
tors of worker behavior and movement that are precursors
to fatigue? We need the data from IoT-connected workers to
keep probing our understanding of safety, health and produc-
tivity.”
Advertisers Index
Air Systems International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
American Industrial Hygiene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Automation Direct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Bowman Dispensers LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Casella CEL Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
DOD Technologies Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
ENMET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
HafcoVac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Jones Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MākuSafe’s sensor-packed wearable not only detects slips and falls but
repetitive motions and worker physicality. (photo courtesy MākuSafe) LTBLtech, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Martin Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
National Safety Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
4) Productivity Analysis
Nextteq . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
What if you could pinpoint the performance of an assembly team?
Pfannenberg Sales America LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Quality, efficiency and output—they are the foundation to any S.E. International Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
manufacturer’s success. However, productivity can vary among
Scantek Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
different teams. Whether a crew has a stellar or subpar defect
rate, the question is always “why.” Data from IoT-connected Sensidyne Industrial Health & Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
workers can reveal if the physical environment is a contribut- Skedco Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
ing factor. Incorrect temperature, excessive noise or improper Slate Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
humidity might be overlooked culprits.
TSI Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 15, 37
Exertion might also be a factor. Some sensor-packed wearables Vortec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
can not only detect slips and falls but also repetitive motions and Wells Lamont Industry Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
worker physicality. Supervisors can correlate this information
March/April 2023 31
AIHA Q&A
What to EXPect & EXPerience at the AIHce EXPO

The AIHce EXPO takes place in Phoenix, at the Phoenix attendees can earn up to 18 certification maintenance (CM)
Convention Center, May 22-24, 2023. There are various contact hours. But deciding amongst our full on-site schedule,
new and exciting things for AIHce EXPO attendees this which includes 67 professional development courses, 155 edu-
year. This Q&A is a unique look ahead at what can be cation sessions, 24 research roundups, four poster sessions and
experienced in Phoenix or online at this jam-packed event. 31 pop-up education sessions, can feel overwhelming.
Q Let’s dive into it. Tell us about the keynote speakers

lined up for 2023.
The opening keynote is Dr. Poppy Crum, Chief Scientist at
Our team wanted to take the stress out of those decisions, which
is why we’re offering all conference registrants access to AIHce
OnDemand for free—whether you register to attend the con-
NextSense Inc., and an Adjunct Professor at Stanford University. ference virtually or in person, for the entire three days or only
Her presentation, “Optimizing Human Performance Through one day. With AIHce OnDemand, attendees will receive audio
Technology,” will kick off the conference on May 22, at 8 a.m. recordings synched to session presenters’ slides, available three-
Mountain Time and will explore the human and consumer four weeks post-conference, through December 31, 2023.
applications of rapidly advancing technology.
The AIHce OnDemand option allows one to earn additional
Faridodin “Fredi” Lajvardi, a science teacher who, for over CM contact hours on top of the 18 available during the live
30 years has taught in a predominantly Hispanic high school, conference event, giving on-site attendees more time to net-
will deliver the closing keynote session, “Diversity Is Key to work, browse the Expo, and enjoy other events. (Note that a
Move the OEHS Agenda Forward,” on May 24 at 3:30 p.m. small percentage of sessions will be unavailable via OnDemand
His presentation will demonstrate why diversity is key to due to speaker permissions.)
igniting interest in science, technology, engineering and math
(STEM) education; building teams in which members support
and motivate each other; and fueling creative innovation and
problem-solving.
Q For many people, conference education sessions are
perfect, but others want or need a deep dive on a par-
ticular subject. What does AIHA offer for those who want
more interaction and more contact hours?
We are excited to welcome Dr. Crum and Lajvardi at AIHce AIHce EXP hosts professional development courses (PDCs)
EXP 2023, and we look forward to learning from them about before and after the conference (Saturday, May 20; Sunday,
how technology and diversity can help us make our workplaces May 21; and Thursday, May 25). These courses are formalized
and communities healthier. learning experiences that, through in-depth instruction by field
experts, enhance technical competence and provide practical
Q What are AIHA’s plans for people who cannot attend

the conference in person?
AIHA will also offer a very robust virtual conference with up
tools and skills for the modern workplace. This year, we are
offering 67 PDCs on-site, and 20 of these will also be available
virtually for those who can’t attend in person.
to five concurrent sessions per time block. And the virtual con-
ference is not just for individuals who can’t make it to Phoenix. Of course, there are also AIHA University eLearning courses
We have dozens of companies who buy group registrations available throughout the year that are suitable for busy profes-
and then assemble their teams at their offices to partake in the sionals’ education needs.
virtual event together.
Q The AIHce EXP agenda notes that registration for the Q What are some activities or events that AIHce EXP
attendees can look forward to?
on-site or virtual conference comes with free AIHce There are activities that will keep on-site AIHce attendees busy
OnDemand? What is “AIHce OnDemand” and how does it at all times if they wish! For example, for newcomers, there
benefit AIHce attendees? will be a “Meet and Greet Breakfast” sponsored by DuPont on
Our education team and conference planning committee Monday, May 22, to provide an opportunity to network with
work hard to make AIHce an educational EXPerience where other first-timers and plan their AIHce EXPerience.

The Nexus is a lounge designed exclusively for students and early At the Expo, AIHce attendees can:
career professionals. Attendees will be treated to a “Lessons in • Visit the Innovation Stations, to learn about the
Leadership” series of meet and greets with our two keynote equipment, instrumentation, technology, and/or other
speakers, AIHA’s named award winners, board members, and materials and activities being developed by exhibitors.
volunteer group and committee members. • Check out the PPE Fashion Show for innovative
solutions that will help create a successful safety
And, as in years past, there is also the Career Advantage Fair program that addresses workforce diversity, ensures
where attendees can take advantage of free counseling, resumé proper fit and provides maximum protection.
critiquing, access to job listings, interviewing and some fun • Stop by the AIHA Booth to check out AIHA University’s
activities, such as speed networking. conference discounts and learn about the latest AIHA
initiatives and member benefits by visiting with AIHA
If you want to support a great cause but also stay active while staff or attending the Main Stage presentations.
at the convention center, there is the American Industrial
Hygiene Foundation’s (AIHF) 5K Fun Run (or 2.5K walk) on To help attendees make the most of their EXPerience at AIHce
Tuesday, May 23. EXP, we are introducing AIHce EXP Journey Maps, which
offer suggested roadmaps to help attendees make the most
And then, of course, there’s the Expo, which will be packed with of their time. There’s a Journey Map for each type of AIHce
hundreds of vendors all excited to meet up in person; present attendee: first-timers, students, early career professionals, sea-
what’s new and what’s next; and click glasses during the Expo soned attendees and those joining us virtually. Each Journey
Hall networking reception on Monday, May 22. Map is tailor-made to provide each respective audience with an
overview of activities and events that would benefit them most.
We have so many new and exciting things

for our AIHce EXP attendees this year! We
look forward to seeing everyone in Phoenix
or online May 22-24, 2023.
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March/April 2023 33
Perspectives: Hearing Conservation
Tablet-Based
Hearing
Photo courtesy of Examinetics
Conservation
We sat down with the folks at Examinetics to discuss the com-
pany’s recent launch of a unique hearing conservation solution. Q How can the Salux solution help professionals in the
safety space meet regulatory compliance requirements?
Read about their state-of-the-art, tablet-based testing plat- Which specific OSHA or other regulatory standards can be
form and other innovative solutions for hearing protection/ addressed?
conservation. Staying compliant with the OSHA standard for Occupational
Noise Exposure (29 CFR 1910.95) has never been easier.
Q Examinetics recently announced the launch of Salux™, Whether testing with one of our technicians or doing DIY test-
described as an “innovative, tablet-based hearing con- ing, Salux was designed with regulatory compliance in mind.
servation solution.” Can you tell us more about what this The software walks you through required daily equipment and
involves? room validations, while we provide the comprehensive annual
Our Salux Audiometric Solution is an easy-to-use, turnkey hear- calibration and maintenance. A training video is part of the
ing testing platform hosted on a tablet. Salux has state-of-the-art employee experience, so you can meet the training requirement
technology and equipment that can be utilized on-demand or of the standard. We offer a tele-technician option for when you
onsite in our mobile units or in a conference room. need CAOHC-certified oversight and don’t have that capability.
And the streamlined recordable shift follow-up process creates
We have the only solution that was developed by a hearing the simplest and most convenient way to keep logs accurate.
conservation company with deep understanding of the unique
needs of the regulatory compliance space. This technology was
developed to provide increased flexibility with scheduling and Q What types of services and/or data can your in-house
audiologists provide?
testing location, and the option to administer in-house testing. Our in-house team of audiologists have always been an integral
part of Examinetics’ success. Having their input in our testing
Q How did the company develop the Salux solution? solution and overseeing processes ensures we are meeting reg-
As a company that prides itself on continuous improve- ulatory standards and gives our clients the peace of mind they
ment, we identified the pain points our clients were having need. Our audiologists design all programs; review problem
with hearing conservation programs and set out to solve them audiograms; and can provide work-relatedness evaluations
with a holistic approach. While there are multiple options for to help keep accurate OSHA and MSHA logs. Access to an
testing, no single one can solve all the various needs of any one audiologist is included when you do on-demand testing, unlike
workplace. So, our audiology and technology teams worked some other audiometer solutions.
closely with operations to develop a system that takes the best
parts of all the current options—clinic testing, mobile unit
testing and portable audiometers—and combines them into Q What is the difference between “on-site” or “on-demand”
hearing testing?
one convenient, seamless and complete hearing testing solution. Since we are the only provider offering both mobile unit and
tablet hearing testing, we have different methods of testing to
Q What professional needs might this hearing conserva- cover varied customer needs. On-site hearing testing is admin-
tion solution meet? istered by one of our technicians at your facility on one of our
Addressing client professional needs was top-of-mind when mobile units or conducted in an appropriate conference room.
developing Salux. Our solution provides a platform to meet
the unique challenges of regulatory compliance. Safety manag- On-demand testing is overseen by a self-appointed administra-
ers and plant operators need flexible and affordable solutions tor at your facility with a Salux kit sent directly to you. This is a
that help minimize the productivity loss associated with com- convenient option for small companies or facilities in remote
pliance, and Salux provides that. Additionally, acquiring and locations and is a new option for large in-house programs
maintaining the vital data needed for regulatory demands is a looking for a better hearing testing process for their audiologist
constant struggle solved by the data-management capabilities or nursing staff.
of the program.

Photo courtesy of Examinetics
Q What type of on-site options does the company provide?

You have the option of having one of our trained techni-
cians come to you to conduct testing inside one of our mobile
units in your parking lot. With Salux, you can now move to a
conference room to avoid bad weather or account for physical
distancing. Testing in a conference room can speed up testing
flow rates with the option to test four, six or eight employees at
a time. Whenever we perform on-site testing, services include
testing, training and counseling.
Q How can Examinetics help companies who want to uti-

lize do-it-yourself, or on-demand-type testing?
Many companies want to perform do-it-yourself hearing testing
but may have some trepidation. With Salux, you are getting
much more support and convenience beyond just having an
audiometer mailed to you. Several unique features that come
with Salux to support an on-demand approach include an inte-
grated video to meet OSHA training requirements; options for
Q How can companies subscribe to a portable audiometer,
and how does that subscription work?
There are several ways to subscribe to Salux. An annual sub-
12 different languages with text-to-speech functionality; a video scription puts you in control all year long to use for hearing
tele-technician for when you require CAOHC certification or conservation program annual testing, any retesting needs, and
just want extra support for your employees; dedicated audiol- new employees or exit audiograms. You can schedule however
ogists that work for Examinetics to support your review; live you want—batch testing, date of birth, date of hire or any other
support via phone or email; and turnkey data management. way convenient for you.
Its not “ship it and forget it” from our team—we are here to The rental option lasts two weeks (14 calendar days) and is ideal
help you through your testing and entire hearing conservation when you have a smaller number of employees for annual test-
program. ing, a make-up or retesting session, or new hire events.
Help prevent workplace hearing loss

with noise measurement solutions from Scantek.
Monitoring workplace noise is essential for protecting workers from unnecessary
hearing loss. Scantek provides the expertise, support, and solutions to help you
with OSHA compliance of minimizing harmful workplace noise and vibrations.
Scantek workplace environment safety solutions include:
• Sound Level Meters, Class 1 and Class 2, from basic to high precision
• Dosimeters to monitor individual noise environments
• Vibration Meters to measure harmful vibrations
• 3D Acoustic Cameras to see and identify the sound source
• Predictive Modeling Software to design a safe workplace
• ISO 17025 Calibration Services for reliable local support and service
Call us today to speak to a member of our trained staff to select

the best solution for your sound and vibration measurement needs.
LISTEN – FEEL – SOLVE

A COMPANY
COMP
800-224-3813
www.scantekinc.com | info@scantekinc.com
March/April 2023 35
Listen Up! From the NHCA Experts…
By: Cory Portnuff, University of Colorado Hospital, Audiologist and National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA) Expert
Is It Safe for Workers to

Wear Earphones?
© Kaspars Grinvalds - stock.adobe.com
With the widespread use of wireless ear-

phones, many workers are requesting
the option to listen to music. Employers
should consider several factors in whether
earphones are appropriate:
1. Auditory Awareness: Is the workplace

a safe place to be using earphones?
Can the worker hear and identify a
warning signal, such as a forklift in
reverse? Remember that some types
of earphones do block out outside
sounds, and loud music can mask
warning signals. Percent of device volume as it relates to decibel level on the A-scale (dBA) and the number of
hours of listening permitted within recommended exposure limits to retain hearing.
2. Communication: Does the employee need to communicate

regularly with coworkers or supervisors? If not, is there a
way to quickly get their attention in an urgent situation?
3. Job Functions: Can the job be done while listening to music?
Podcasts or audiobooks? This may vary by job function—a
machinist may use auditory cues to know that their
equipment is working properly, and use of earphones may
limit this. Also, does music distract or improve attention?
4. Noise Exposure: Music players can be very loud (see
image, above). Also, workers who are enrolled in a Hearing
Conservation Program may need hearing protection. If
hearing protection devices are required, hearing protection
with an appropriate noise reduction rating (NRR) must
be used. Some earmuffs with NRRs may have radios or
earphones built in, and employers should evaluate if their
use has the potential to push the employee’s noise exposure
into a hazardous range.
Allowing earphone use in the workplace has both risks and

benefits. Employees may perceive greater job satisfaction, if
they can control their auditory environments and listen to what
they want. But safety professionals should be cautious about
allowing earphones, if there is any risk to the worker’s safety
or hearing.
Visit NHCA at: https://www.hearingconservation.org/

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March - April 2023

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2023 Safety Study:

Nearly nine-in-10 respondents noted they rely on a combina-

8 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace

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Some of the challenges facing new employee training include

10 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace

growth and operational continuity.”

Not all companies are involved in

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“It is safer for industrial plants to provide suitable headlamps

12 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace

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Across a range of industries, however, typical headlamps can

“Whether for OSHA, Zone 0 or state standards, intrinsically

14 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace

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There’s clear common ground and intersection between ESG

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The Social Science Research Network (SSRN) observed that,

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Tracking Alerts 24/7, Even When You’re Asleep

A 24/7 professional monitoring service can vary wildly based on a facility’s

For example, it could be established that, if there is a man-down or a panic

Implementing a professional monitoring service, in addition to live moni-

[Cynthia Horn is an Application Specialist at Industrial Scientific.] ®

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Professional credentials, also known as professional certifica-

22 Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace