Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1040159
separately regulated under 29 CFR 1910.134, and requires fit testing, medical evaluation and training for workers who must wear such devices). It is also critical to educate workers about the sources and conditions that could result in CO poisoning, and what procedures are in place to control such exposures in a timely manner. Employers must also inform them of the symptoms so that potentially hazardous situations can be quickly identified and addressed appropriately. Employees should be told to report any situation to the employer where CO might accumulate, be alert to ventilation problems, report any dizziness, drowsiness or nausea, and avoid overexertion and leave the contaminated area if CO poisoning is suspected. If a worker appears to be poisoned by CO, move the victim to an open area with fresh air immediately and call 911 for medical attention and assistance. First responders will likely administer 100 percent-oxygen using a tight-fitting mask (if the victim is breathing and the cause of their collapse is correctly identified), and they may need to administer CPR if breathing has stopped. Even rescuers can be exposed to potentially fatal levels of CO, and multiple casualties commonly result during confined space rescue operations. Therefore, rescuers should be properly trained and use appropriate equipment. Finally, remember that if an employee is admitted for in-patient hospital treatment, OSHA must be notified within 24 hours of the triggering event. The reporting requirement is not in effect if the worker is simply treated at the scene or at the emergency room without hospital admission, or if the worker is kept overnight for observation only or diagnostic tests. Failure to timely report a hospitalization can result in minimum mandatory penalties of over $5,000 per incident. PC 22 PalletCentral • September-October 2018 palletcentral.com SAFETY Adele L. Abrams is an attorney and safety professional who represents companies in litigation with OSHA and also provides safety training and consultation. The Law Office of Adele L. Abrams PC has three offices: Beltsville, MD; Denver, CO; and Charleston, WV. Adele can be reached at 301-595-3520 or www.safety-law.com. It is critical to educate workers about the sources and conditions that could result in CO poisoning, and what procedures are in place to control such exposures in a timely manner.