Recent Head Injuries

In the line-of-fire... that is the question. In discussing Safestart's states to errors pattern over the last year we have spent a lot of time on the in-the-line-of-fire aspect. We have said that we are not always able to get out of the line- of-fire, but it is important that we realize when we are in the line of fire.

The picture above shows an employee replacing some pins in a large tub grinder. The hammer attachment had been modified to fit the customer's new and bigger machine. The weld on the attachment failed and the hammer hit the employee's head. (Note At time of injury hard hat was not being worn & slide hammer was not supported at the inside position by the crane.)

There are two issues here:

• Recognize, Evaluate, and Control... If we must be in the line-of-fire, we need to recognize the potential hazard and evaluate how we/or someone else could be injured. Finally control the situation. Change positions, use a different procedure, tool or, last but not least, utilize personal protection equipment. If you are unsure how to control a potential hazard call your supervisor.
• Modifying tooling can be very dangerous if not done correctly. Realize any modification may increase the risk of a potential accident & make sure your modification has been approved.

FROM THIS POINT FORWARD HARD HATS, NOT BUMP CAPS, ARE MANDATORY WHEN WORKING IN AREAS WHERE OVERHEAD WORK IS BEING PERFORMED BY YOU OR BY SOMEONE ELSE.