Author · 43 articles
Adeel Rashid covers process safety and major-hazard operations. His articles explore risk management in refining, chemicals, gas processing, tank farms and related industrial facilities, explaining how prevention measures help control serious incidents.
PPE is one of the most visible parts of workplace safety. Hard hats, gloves, goggles, hearing protection and respirators are easy to see during a site walk. What is less visible is whether the equipment was selected properly, fits the…
TL;DR If the gear is being switched, racked, or isolated, treat it as the highest-risk moment — HSE's HSG230 (UK, 2015) identifies operation, not standing service, as when switchgear is most likely to fail. If you operate switchgear, your PPE…
TL;DR 50 µg/m³ — OSHA's 8-hour exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica in general industry, with action required at 25 µg/m³ (US OSHA, 2016). 100 µg/m³ — the UK and EU 8-hour limit for the same dust, double the US…
TL;DR Confirm reportability first: Only six specific trigger categories require a RIDDOR submission. Non-worker hospitalisation, specified injuries, and over-7-day absences are the most commonly missed. Identify the right person to file: The "responsible person" is rarely the injured worker or…
TL;DR — What Most Heat Programs Get Wrong Myth: A normal air-temperature reading means heat risk is handled. Reality: air temperature ignores radiant load. A worker beside a furnace door can overheat while the air around them reads moderate. Myth:…
TL;DR If an operator holds a training certificate but no third-party certification → they are not certified under OSHA's definition, and the employer is non-compliant with 29 CFR 1926.1427. If an operator carries a valid NCCCO card but the employer…
TL;DR If you are responsible for maintaining a non-domestic building in the UK → you almost certainly hold a legal duty under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to identify, assess, and manage any asbestos-containing materials in…
TL;DR ~33,000 workers missed work on US loading docks, dock plates, and ramps between 2015 and 2020, with a median 14 days away (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). 49 loading dock fatalities were recorded in the same six-year window…
TL;DR — The Numbers That Define This Hazard 1,075 fatal construction injuries recorded in the US in 2023 — the highest count since 2011 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). 80% of structural collapses during US construction (1990–2008) were attributed…
Two specialty chemicals establishments sit four miles apart on the coastal corridor where I run process-safety assurance. One holds around 280 tonnes of a flammable liquid plus two named toxic intermediates above their lower thresholds; the other holds nearly double…
I sat through a leadership review last year where a plant director pointed at a row of green cells on a dashboard — lagging indicators, all favorable — and declared the facility had a "strong safety culture." Thirty minutes later,…
TL;DR Administrative controls are management-driven safety measures that reduce worker exposure to hazards through policies, procedures, schedules, and training — without physically removing the hazard itself. They sit fourth on the Hierarchy of Controls, above PPE but below elimination, substitution,…
Asbestos exposure remains a hidden threat in many workplaces, particularly in older buildings, industrial facilities, and renovation or demolition environments. From the 1930s through the 1970s, asbestos was widely used in construction due to its durability, heat resistance, and fire-retardant…
Food safety training is vital in any setting where food is prepared or served. Proper training not only protects customers from foodborne illnesses but also safeguards businesses from legal issues and reputational damage. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO)…
In many workplaces, safety training is done once in a while — annual refreshers, inductions, or significant events. But real improvement in safety outcomes comes when safety isn’t just a formal training event — but a regular, repeated focus. That’s…
When people worry about indoor air quality and safety, carbon monoxide (CO) is often a chief concern. CO is a toxic, colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health issues or death at high enough concentrations. Naturally, many wonder whether…
Every day in industrial workplaces, unassuming metal and plastic shields quietly save fingers, limbs, and lives. These fixed guards may not be glamorous, but they are the unsung heroes of machine safety. Whether you’re a seasoned safety officer or a…
In industrial settings where heavy machinery and rapid mechanical movements are part of daily operations, worker safety must be a top priority. One of the most effective and reliable methods of protecting machine operators is the use of two-hand control…
Electricity powers almost every aspect of our daily lives, but it also comes with inherent dangers that can lead to serious injuries, fires, or even fatalities if not handled correctly. To ensure safety in workplaces, public spaces, and industrial settings,…
Food safety is a critical aspect of kitchen management in commercial settings and at home to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain hygiene. Recognizing and understanding common food safety signs can significantly enhance safety and compliance with health regulations. This blog…
Fire safety is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in any environment, from homes and workplaces to public spaces. Among the many tools used to enhance preparedness and response during emergencies, fire safety signs are…
Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD) is a chronic, complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when an individual develops an uncontrollable dependence on a substance, such as drugs or alcohol, despite harmful consequences to their health, relationships, and…
Accidental spills of hazardous substances can occur in any environment where chemicals, biological agents, or radioactive materials are handled, posing serious threats to health, safety, and the environment. A spill kit is an essential safety tool designed to swiftly manage…
Industrial hygiene is a critical field dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of workers and the surrounding community. As industries evolve and workplaces become more complex, understanding the principles and key concepts of industrial hygiene becomes essential for maintaining…
OHSAS 18001, short for Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series, was an internationally recognized standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems. It provided organizations with a framework to identify and manage workplace risks, demonstrating a commitment to employee…
In any organization, whether it’s a corporate office, healthcare facility, educational institution, or manufacturing plant, maintaining a safe and efficient environment is paramount. Despite best efforts, incidents—ranging from minor accidents to significant emergencies—can and do occur. Managing these incidents effectively…
Asbestos is a dangerous material that, when disturbed, releases harmful fibers into the air. Exposure to these fibers can lead to serious health conditions, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because of these risks, it's essential to be aware…
Ensuring the safety of your child while traveling in a vehicle is paramount. Car seat safety is not just a recommendation—it’s a critical aspect of child passenger protection that can save lives. With numerous car seat models and ever-evolving safety…
Ensuring safety while working at heights is paramount in many industries, including construction, maintenance, and telecommunications. A Full Body Safety Harness is a critical component of personal fall protection systems, designed to protect workers from severe injuries or fatalities resulting…
Creating a safe work environment is the collective responsibility of everyone within an organization, from the highest-ranking executive to the newest team member. Our well-being and the success of our organization hinge on our ability to understand, implement, and uphold…
HSE Blog is written by practising health and safety professionals from across industry.