Safety Simplified Blog

Workers in grain elevators, milling, and processing facilities are well-acquainted with the hazards posed by combustible dust. These fine particles, when suspended in air, can lead to catastrophic explosions if not properly managed. Understanding the nature of combustible dust and implementing effective housekeeping practices are crucial steps in preventing such incidents. Defining Combustible Dust The […]

If you are concerned about an inspection from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is good news.  OSHA Instruction CPL 02-01-004 is OSHA’s playbook when it comes to inspecting grain handling facilities.  This article will focus on several critical areas that will likely be included in the inspection process as well as “best […]

Our subject matter expert, Joe Mlynek, drafted this article for Grain Journal Magazine in the Summer of 2023. A grain handling company recently asked me to perform a mock OSHA inspections at their facilities. The company had a policy and checklist for managing OSHA inspections but had never practiced or prepared in a simulated manner. […]

When working at heights, safety should always be the top priority. Using a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) without evaluating fall clearance can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Before utilizing a PFAS, workers must have a foundational understanding of fall clearance. Calculating Fall Clearance To accurately calculate fall clearance, you need to consider several […]

Purdue University’s 2023 report on agricultural confined space-related injuries and fatalities reveals both alarming trends and areas of improvement within the industry. While there has been a notable decrease in the number of incidents compared to previous years, the statistics underscore the ongoing risks associated with confined spaces in agriculture. Key Findings Trends and Insights […]

During a recent safety inspection at a grain facility, one of our subject matter experts made it a point to engage with the facility manager and front line employees about their safety concerns. Typically, they expect to hear common issues like bin entry risks, worker fatigue, or the dangers of working on top of railcars. […]

Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries in the world, with high rates of occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) consistently reports that agriculture has the highest rates of injuries of any major industry sector in the United States. In 2021, agriculture saw 19.5 fatal injuries per 100,000 […]

On November 3rd, 2006, our world shifted forever. This is the story of Safety Made Simple’s Anne Cook and Joe Mlynek’s friend and colleague, Rod, who tragically lost his life in a grain engulfment incident. It’s also the story of a company that underwent a profound transformation in its safety culture following that heartbreaking event. […]

In a tragic incident highlighted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an agricultural worker died from asphyxiation after entering a polyethylene storage tank to repair a ball valve without practicing confined space safety measures. This incident underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing all confined space hazards in agricultural settings. Incident Overview The […]

In the realm of agricultural safety, understanding environmental risks in confined spaces is crucial. These hazardous environments present unique risks that demand awareness and proper safety protocols. Why Focus on Agricultural Confined Spaces? Agricultural confined spaces are essential for storing and handling crops. They pose serious risks to those who work in and around them. […]

As summer heats up, so does the need for heightened safety awareness in maritime facilities like shipping and barge loading terminals. While the water may look inviting, it poses unique risks to workers, making it essential to have proper protocols and equipment in place to ensure their safety. Here’s what every working professional in maritime […]

As the temperature rises, so does the risk of heat-related illnesses. Whether you’re working outdoors or simply going about your daily work routine, it’s crucial to take precautions to protect yourself from summer weather conditions. Here are some tips for staying safe this summer. Hydration: Quench Your Thirst, Protect Your Health One of the most […]

Safety inspections are a fundamental part of maintaining a secure and efficient grain facility. As a safety manager, your role in leading these inspections is crucial for identifying, eliminating, and controlling workplace hazards. Essential Safety Inspection Checklist for Grain Facility Managers outlines an essential checklist and best practices to enhance your safety protocols. Effective safety […]

Severe weather, such as a tornado, can strike at any time. It is important to understand severe weather warning systems, preparations, and the steps to take prior to and during severe weather. Warnings and Watches The National Weather Service Issues tornado watches and warnings. A tornado watch means that tornados are likely to occur in […]

Workplace safety accountability is a cornerstone of workplace safety and fosters a culture where safety protocols are not just followed but integrated into the daily operations of an organization. Joe Mlynek, CSP, OHST, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC and co-owner of Safety Made Simple shares his research and work around employee engagement, responsibility and […]

Stressed cattle can easily injure or kill a worker. According to the Kansas Livestock Association’s Work Comp Program, 45% of feedlot injuries involve working with cattle. Understanding cattle behavior and implementing low stress cattle handling practices can prevent serious injuries and fatalities. Low-stress cattle handling incorporates the understanding of cattle’s natural behaviors. Using this knowledge, […]

The majority of employees are aware of  fall hazards in their work environment. They also have knowledge in  fall protection strategies, required equipment, and inspection protocols. However, they are often unaware of orthostatic intolerance and suspension trauma. Ortho Static Intolerance Orthostatic intolerance is “the development of symptoms such as light-headedness, heart palpitations, poor concentration, fatigue, […]

Phosphine has been used in the fumigation of grain storage structures since 1958. Available formulations include aluminum or magnesium phosphide. Both penetrate deeply into stored grain killing target pests. While licensed fumigators are highly trained in phosphine’s hazards, many affected employees and contractors working in close proximity to fumigated structures are not. This blog provides […]