According to latest reports, the U.S. workplace fatality rate increased in 2014 with the highest death rate in seven years. That is the first time it has done so since 2010, according to finalized data released April 21 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The revised rate for 2014 increased to 3.4 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers for a total of 4,821 fatalities.

"This is the highest number of workers killed on the job since 2008," BLS stated.

2014 BLS Fatality Statistics:
• Private construction industry had 899, the highest since 2008.
• Oil and gas extraction industries had 144, which is the most ever recorded.
• Workers 55 and older took a sharp increase with 1,691 deaths.

Source: SAFETY+HEALTH Newsletter (4/22/16) published by the National Safety Council. 

"Confined Spaces in Construction: Communication is Key!" will be the subject of a presentation by Roco's VPP Coordinator Pat Furr at the upcoming Region VI-VPP conference. The VPPPA Region VI Annual Safety & Health Conference will be held on May 16-19, 2016, at the Fort Worth Convention Center. 

Presentation times are:
Tuesday, May 17th @ 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, May 18th @ 8:30 a.m.

This presentation will draw parallels and differences between the general industry and construction industry regulations for permit required confined space operations. Although there are similarities between the two regulations, there are also some very important differences.

We are still seeing fatalities in the construction industry that are directly attributable to poor coordination and communication and this presentation will go a long ways in clarifying those critical needs.

In addition to discussing some new definitions, and in particular the addition of some new roles and responsibilities, the need for clear coordination and communication between the various contractor entities will be emphasized.

Visit with Pat, Aimee and Chanie at Roco's Booth #506

Click the picture to download our Confined Spaces in Construction safety poster.

Petzl has reported a couple of instances where cracks may have developed over time in the arms of the ASAP LOCK (B71 ALU). While a cracked arm presents no additional immediate risk to the user, as with any personal protective equipment (PPE), the presence of such a crack requires immediate retirement of the device. In the unlikely event that someone finds an ASAP LOCK displaying cracks, Petzl America will replace these units under their standard product warranty.

One of the skills that separates a good team from a great team is patient handling; how quickly and efficiently a patient can be packaged for movement. Patient packaging and lashing is one area that can save a lot of time during a real rescue. This becomes even more critical when rescuers are wearing SCBA. Good patient packaging skills can significantly reduce the time rescuers and the patient are exposed to hazards.

Here's the drill for patient packaging with a single rescuer:

1) Lay out a main line and safety line system with needed materials to attach to a litter for both vertical and horizontal movement as well as for taglines and attendant.

2) Lay out the necessary equipment to lash and build both vertical and horizontal bridles for a given litter. Make sure it is laid out the same way for each participant.

3) Properly place simulated patient/manikin in litter.

4) Tell participant what packaging system is to be built. Example: Sked vertical with attendant or stokes horizontal with taglines.

5) Log the time it takes for each team member to package the patient, build a bridle and make main and safety line connections.

6) Once the team member is finished, inspect the system for accuracy and correct any mistakes. Discuss the technique used and what can be done to decrease the time needed to complete the system. Possible areas to decrease times include: (a) enhancing the individual's skill level; (b) streamlining the order in which the packaging was completed; or (c) considering pre-rig options for the litter to save time during a real rescue.

7) Repeat the drill alternating with vertical and horizontal rigging and the use of tagline and attendants. This drill can also be extended to backboard lashing, short spine immobilizers or webbing hasty harnesses.

Some type of patient packaging is going to be involved in every rescue scenario where a patient needs to be extricated. This could be from a confined space, high angle environment, or low angle/low slope. Being proficient in packaging is critical for rescue efficiency as well as overall patient care. Practice often!

Next in this series: QUICK DRILL #12 Patient Packaging (Tandem Rescuers)

By Josh Hill, Technical Equipment Manager for Roco Rescue

The CSR2 pulley system by CMC has been redesigned and includes many improvements. Its performance is quite impressive. The pulleys are milled from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides a lighter yet stronger piece of hardware. Couple this with anodized sheaves and sealed bearings and you have a highly efficient system at your disposal.

The patented locking system is the most impressive feature of the pulley system. The locking mechanism eliminates the use of a toothed cam or prusiks for capture and can easily be released under load with positive control for maximum safety. 

The pulleys also incorporate a thrust-bearing swivel, which reduces torque by aligning the pulleys with the load as well as eliminating twisting in the system for maximum efficiency. 

Although the side plates are fixed, which requires rope to be threaded through the pulleys, the addition of the side becket allows for easy change out of rescue rope even with sewn terminations.

The CSR2 pulley system is a great addition to any rescue cache’ especially when utilized as a pre-built block and tackle system. The efficiency of the system with ½” (12.5mm) rescue rope is well worth mentioning. The locking system is amazingly easy to operate and makes the transition from hauling to lowering under load seamless.