American Health & Safety: Premier Provider of Comprehensive Safety Training and Auditing Programs in the United States

Based in Greenville, SC, and extending services across the United States, American Health and Safety is dedicated to delivering top-notch safety training that meets the needs of various industries and sectors across the country. We offer a wide array of safety training courses designed to enhance workplace safety and compliance.

Our Services

  • OSHA Compliance Training: Ensure your team adheres to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards with our extensive training programs, which include a focus on general industry safety, construction-specific hazards, and healthcare-related safety protocols.
  • CPR and First Aid Certification: Our certified CPR and First Aid courses are essential for anyone looking to acquire life-saving skills, applicable in schools, corporate settings, and among public service workers.
  • Fire Safety Training: Participants learn to manage fire emergencies effectively through our comprehensive fire safety courses that cover prevention, containment, and effective evacuation strategies.
  • HAZWOPER Training: Specialize in handling hazardous materials with our Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training.
  • Workplace Safety Plans and Audits: Custom safety plans and thorough audits are available to identify potential workplace hazards and implement effective preventive measures.
  • Ergonomics Training: Our ergonomics training helps in reducing musculoskeletal injuries, improving workplace ergonomics, and ensuring employee comfort and safety.
  • Environmental Safety Training: Learn about environmental protections and sustainable practices to maintain safety and compliance at your workplace.
  • Electrical Safety Standards: We provide comprehensive training on electrical safety standards that helps in preventing electrical hazards in various operational environments.
  • Healthcare Safety Protocols: Specialized training for healthcare providers to manage workplace safety effectively, including dealing with biohazards and maintaining patient and staff safety.
  • Industrial Hygiene: Train in the anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control of workplace environmental factors that may affect health and well-being.
  • Construction Safety Training: From small teams to large enterprises, ensure safety on construction sites with our specialized courses that cover all aspects of construction safety.

Nationwide Training Capabilities

American Health and Safety’s programs are available across the United States, ensuring no matter where you are, you can access high-quality, practical safety training solutions tailored to your needs.

Why Choose American Health and Safety?

  • Expert Instructors: Our trainers are certified professionals with extensive field experience.
  • Flexible Training Options: We provide a range of training options, including in-person, hybrid, and fully online courses to suit your scheduling needs.
  • Practical and Interactive Courses: Our interactive courses are designed to engage participants and provide practical skills and knowledge that can be applied immediately.
  • Certification and Ongoing Support: Participants receive certification upon course completion, with ongoing support to help implement effective safety practices.

Serving Greenville and the Surrounding Areas

While we are headquartered in Greenville, SC, our reach extends to Spartanburg and Anderson, SC, among other nearby locations. We are committed to promoting safer work environments through education and training.

Contact Us

Boost your workplace safety today with American Health and Safety. Visit our website at www.americanhealthandsafety.com or call us to arrange a consultation or training session. We’re here to help you enhance safety wherever you are in the U.S.!

Crane Collapse Incident in Fort Lauderdale Results in Fatality


Crane Collapse Incident in Fort Lauderdale Results in Fatality

In a tragic incident on Thursday evening, a segment of a tower crane plummeted onto a car on the Southeast 3rd Avenue Bridge near Southeast 4th Street in downtown Fort Lauderdale, causing one fatality. The large, light blue crane section, intended for extending the crane’s reach at a nearby construction site, fell and landed on a vehicle, leaving the scene marked by devastation and urgent investigative efforts.

Fort Lauderdale Fire Chief Stephen Gollan provided details during a media conference, stating that the accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. as crane segments were being hoisted to enhance the crane’s operational span. During this operation, a platform carrying a significant crane piece became unstable and subsequently failed, resulting in the crane part collapsing onto the bridge.

Tragically, the incident claimed the life of a construction worker, who fell from the building site amidst the chaos of the accident. This loss underscores the inherent risks associated with construction work, particularly in operations involving heavy machinery like tower cranes.

Emphasizing Crane Safety

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of crane safety in construction settings. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets forth strict guidelines and regulations to prevent such accidents. OSHA’s standards for crane operations include regular inspections, adherence to load capacity limits, and the requirement for crane operators to be certified and trained in the machinery’s operation and safety protocols.

Moreover, OSHA emphasizes the significance of planning crane operations meticulously, ensuring that every aspect of the lift, from the route of the crane to the stability of the ground and weather conditions, is considered to mitigate risks. Safety measures, such as barricading unsafe zones and using spotters to guide crane movements, are vital in preventing accidents.

Key Aspects of Managing Fall Zones in Crane Safety

  1. Identification and Marking: Clearly identifying and marking the fall zone around a crane’s operation area is essential. This zone is where materials, tools, or even parts of the crane itself (such as a load, boom, or counterweight) could potentially fall during operation. The size of the fall zone depends on the type of crane, the load being lifted, and the height from which materials could fall.
  2. Restricting Access: Access to the fall zone should be restricted to essential personnel only. This is often achieved through physical barriers and signage that warn of the potential danger. The goal is to ensure that workers and bystanders are not unnecessarily exposed to the risk of falling objects.
  3. Use of Barricades and Safety Nets: In some cases, barricades or safety nets may be used around the perimeter of the fall zone to catch falling objects or to further discourage unauthorized access.
  4. Planning Lifts: Careful planning of crane operations can minimize the risks associated with fall zones. This includes choosing the right crane for the job, calculating the load’s weight and balance, and planning the load’s path to avoid unnecessary risk of objects falling.
  5. Training and Communication: Workers involved in crane operations should be trained in recognizing and avoiding hazards related to fall zones. This includes understanding the limitations and capabilities of the crane being used, as well as effective communication among all team members involved in the lift.

Navigating Fire Marshal Inspections: A Guide for Businesses

Fire marshal inspections can seem daunting, but they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of your business premises, employees, and customers. These inspections verify compliance with local fire codes, aiming to reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. Failing an inspection can lead to fines, operational interruptions, or even legal consequences. However, with the right preparation, passing a fire marshal inspection can be straightforward. Here’s how your business can prepare for and successfully navigate these inspections.

Understand the Fire Code
The first step in preparing for a fire marshal inspection is understanding the fire code regulations applicable to your area. Fire codes are based on national standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), but can vary locally. Familiarize yourself with these codes to understand what inspectors are looking for and ensure your business complies.

Pre-Inspection Checklist
A thorough pre-inspection can highlight areas that need attention before the official visit. Consider the following checklist to guide your preparation:

  1. Accessibility of Fire Safety Equipment
    Ensure fire extinguishers, hose reels, and other fire-fighting equipment are easily accessible, clearly marked, and fully operational.
  2. Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarm Systems
    Test smoke detectors and fire alarm systems to confirm they are working correctly. Regular maintenance records for these systems should be up-to-date and readily available.
  3. Clear Exit Routes
    Emergency exits should be clearly marked, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Regular drills can also help ensure that evacuation plans are effective and well-understood by all employees.

    – An exit access/egress point must be at least 28 inches (71.1 cm) wide at all points.

  4. Electrical Safety
    Inspect electrical panels, cords, and outlets for potential hazards like overloading or frayed wires. Ensure that extension cords are used appropriately and are not a permanent solution.
  5. Storage of Flammable Materials & Liquids
    Store flammable materials according to fire code regulations, ensuring they are properly labeled and kept away from ignition sources.

    – Storage Cabinets: Flammable liquids should be stored in approved storage cabinets. These cabinets are designed to limit the internal temperature when exposed to fire. OSHA regulations specify that not more than 60 gallons of Category 1, 2, or 3 flammable liquids, nor more than 120 gallons of Category 4 flammable liquids may be stored in a storage cabinet.
    – Storage Rooms: If the quantity of flammable liquids exceeds what is permissible in storage cabinets, they should be kept in a designated storage room. These rooms must meet specific construction standards, such as fire-resistant walls and self-closing, fire-rated doors. They should also be equipped with proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of fumes.
    – Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial in areas where flammable liquids are stored or used to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
  6. Fire Doors and Sprinkler Systems
    Check that fire doors are operational and not blocked. If your premises are equipped with a sprinkler system, ensure it’s not obstructed and is in working order.

Sprinkler systems should be inspected and maintained. Ensure systems are not being “loaded”. This is when a system has a large accumulation of dust and debris which can affect it’s discharge.

EXAMPLE OF A “LOADED” SYSTEM:

During the Inspection
Be Cooperative and Prepared
Being present during the inspection allows you to provide necessary access, clarify operations, and discuss findings directly. Keep all related documents, such as maintenance records and evacuation plans, at hand.

Address Issues Promptly
If the fire marshal identifies issues, seek clarity on how to address them and act promptly to make corrections. Demonstrating a commitment to safety can also reflect positively on your business.

After the Inspection
Implement Changes
Implement any required changes as soon as possible. If serious violations are found, it may be beneficial to hire professionals to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.

Schedule a Follow-Up
If a follow-up inspection is necessary, schedule it once all corrections are made. This demonstrates your commitment to compliance and safety.

Maintain Compliance
Fire safety is an ongoing responsibility. Regularly review your practices, conduct drills, and keep an eye on any changes in fire safety regulations to ensure continuous compliance.

Published 04/03/2024