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Zone Comfort
You are never too busy to take care of your mental health
Many of us might feel guilty or anxious about taking holidays, especially when we have a lot of work to do or deadlines to meet. You may think that taking a holiday will make you fall behind, or that you are leaving your co-workers in the lurch. However, this mindset can be harmful for your health, productivity, and well-being.
Taking a holiday can have many benefits for your work and life. Here are some of them:
• Reduced stress levels. According to a study by the Canadian Mental Health Association, vacations can lower the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure and reward. This can make you feel more relaxed, happy, and energized.
• Boost your creativity and problemsolving skills. A holiday can expose you to new experiences, cultures, and perspectives, which can stimulate your brain and enhance your cognitive abilities. According to a study by the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, vacations can increase the activity of the default mode network, a brain system that is involved in imagination, memory, and self-awareness.
• Improve your physical health. A holiday can help you get more sleep, exercise, and sunlight, which can improve your immune system, metabolism, and circadian rhythm.
You can plan and manage your workload effectively, so that you can enjoy your time off. Try these tips:
• Plan your holiday in advance and communicate it to your managers and coworkers. Let them know when you will be away, how long you will be gone, and how they can reach you in case of emergency. You can also set an out-ofoffice message on your email and phone, informing people of your absence and directing them to an alternative contact.
• Prioritize your tasks and delegate or postpone the ones that are not urgent or important. You can use a matrix or a list to categorize your tasks according to their
Inside this edition
• Tips for working in the heat
• Personal security at work
• Heat exhaustion signs
• Photosensitivity is not sunburn
• Hands are valuable
• Move and store gas cylinders properly
• Insect stings can be serious
• Eye floaters explained
• Setting off fireworks safely
• Things to know about massage therapy
• Practice year-round car maintenance
• Act FAST for signs of stroke
• Summer road trip safely
• Supplemented foods explained
• Safety meeting:
Avoid trips and falls in the office
urgency and importance and decide which ones you need to do before you leave, which ones you can assign to someone else, and which ones you can do when you return.
• Prepare a handover document or a briefing for the person or team who will take over your work while you are away. Include the details of your projects, the status of your tasks , the potential challenges and risks, and the resources and contacts that they may need.
• Trust your coworkers and let go of your work. Remember that they are capable and competent, and that they may have different ways of doing things. Respect their autonomy and appreciate their efforts. You can also give them feedback and recognition when you return.
Publisher & CEO: Stefan Dreesen
H&S Communication Specialists: Alan Haycroft | Liz Slobodin | Kevin Harvey
Editor: Kate Van Hoof-Peeren
Contributing Writer: Bryden Winsby
TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4800
info@smartworkplace.ca www.smartworkplace.ca
According to a study by the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, taking a holiday can increase your life expectancy by 20%.
Working outdoors?
Here are some key safety tips
(NC) For many people who work outside, high temperatures and heat waves pose a danger to their health – and their ability to work.
Know the risk
Heat can hurt everyone’s health, particularly people who work outside, older adults, young children and people with health conditions who are at greater risk for heat illness.
Heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke can come on quickly and have lasting health effects. Some heat illnesses, such as heat stroke, can even be deadly. Taking some simple precautions when it is hot outdoors can save you and your co-workers’ lives.
Watch for symptoms
Symptoms of heat illness include dizziness, extreme thirst and rapid heartbeat. Watch yourself and your co-workers for these symptoms. If symptoms are spotted, get to a cool place and hydrate.
If symptoms are ignored or go unnoticed, heat stroke could happen. Heat stroke symptoms include a high body temperature, confusion and a lack of coordination, dizziness or fainting, and a lack of sweating in the heat. These symptoms can be a medical emergency and warrant an immediate 911 call. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place if you can, fan the person as much as possible and apply cold water to large areas of their skin or clothing.
Pace yourself
Do not assume you can work at your normal pace during a heat wave. Slow down and take more frequent breaks in the shade to drink water. Although it may feel like lost time on the job, it will help you stay healthy enough to get more done overall.
Drink up
Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, during a heat wave. Do this before you feel thirsty to decrease the risk of becoming dehydrated. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
Dress for the weather
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if you can. If you wear heavy safety gear on the job, your breaks are even more important. Make sure to remove your gear while you take breathers in a safe location. In addition to drinking liquids and dressing for the weather, you should also closely monitor your physical condition. Avoid working alone in extreme heat and check on your co-workers regularly.
A few simple steps like these can go a long way to protecting you during a heat event.
Find more information about working outdoors in the heat and heat illnesses at canada.ca/ health
Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
(NC) The hot summer heat is here, and with it comes the risk for heat-related illnesses. Heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions like heat cramps and rashes to moderate illnesses like heat exhaustion, and more severe outcomes like heat stroke. As the body gets hotter, conditions can quickly get worse.
Being proactive to mitigate the risk of all heat-related illnesses is important. Also critical is to watch for the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion because it can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to overheating. It can be caused by being exposed to high temperatures, particularly when there is also high humidity, or as a result of intense physical activity. Although it can present differently for different people, there are common signs and symptoms to watch for.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion:
• High body temperature.
• Confusion and lack of coordination.
• Skin rash.
• Muscle cramps.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Heavy sweating.
• Headache.
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat.
• Extreme thirst.
• Dark urine and decreased urination.
If you or someone around you experiences any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately stop all activity, move to a cool place and hydrate—water is best. If symptoms get worse or don’t improve, seek medical assistance.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its own temperature. Heat stroke requires emergency treatment. If left untreated heat stroke can damage vital organs, with damage worsening the longer treatment is delayed, or can cause death.
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke:
• High body temperature.
• Confusion and lack of coordination.
• Dizziness/fainting.
• Severe nausea and vomiting.
• No sweating.
• Very hot, red skin.
• Rapid breathing and heartrate.
If you recognize these signs and symptoms in yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately and try to cool yourself or them down while help is on the way. Move the affected person to a cool place or shade, remove excess clothing, apply cold water to large areas of their skin and fan the person as much as possible. Do not leave the person alone until medical assistance has arrived.
Learn more about heat-related illnesses at canada.ca/health.
Photosensitivity is not sunburn
If you have symptoms like a sore rash, skin discolouration or swelling after being in the sun, even if you used sunscreen or wore protective clothing, you might think it’s sunburn. But it could be something else: photosensitivity. Photosensitivity is when your immune system reacts to sunlight and causes you to have symptoms that can range from a severe sunburn or skin rash. These rashes can sometimes be itchy, and in some cases you may have blistering and peeling skin. One of the main reasons for photosensitivity is a reaction to a medication you are taking. Some medications that can cause this include antihistamines, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, diuretics and some skincare products. Some medical conditions, such as lupus and rosacea, can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Another cause of photosensitivity is genetic. Some people have inherited conditions that make their skin more vulnerable to the effects of sunlight. For example, people with porphyria have a problem with their blood cells that makes them produce chemicals that are
harmful when exposed to light. People with albinism have a lack of pigment in their skin, hair and eyes, which makes them more prone to sunburn and skin cancer. These conditions are rare, but they can have serious consequences for your health and well-being.
If you think you might have photosensitivity, talk to your pharmacist about the medications you are using and see if any of them could increase your risk. Your pharmacist may be able to suggest other options that don’t have the same effect on your skin.
If you have a family history of photosensitivity, you should consult your doctor and get tested for any possible genetic disorders. You should also take extra precautions to avoid sun damage and wear sunscreen, clothing and sunglasses that block UV rays.
The best way to protect your skin, whether you have photosensitivity or not, is to limit your exposure to direct sunlight.
Stay alert at work during the summer
Summer is a time to relax and enjoy the warm weather, but it can also pose some security risks at work. Whether you are working from home or in the office, you need to be aware of the potential threats and take precautions to protect yourself and your colleagues.
One of the most common security issues at work is the presence of unauthorized visitors who may try to access sensitive information, steal equipment, or harm employees. To prevent this, you should always follow the visitor policy of your workplace and check the identification of anyone who looks like they don’t belong. If you see someone wandering around the office without a badge or a host, ask them politely who they are and what they are doing. If they cannot provide a valid reason, report them to your manager or security personnel immediately. Do not let them enter any restricted areas or leave them alone with any confidential documents or devices. Another common security issue at work is the theft of personal belongings, such as wallets, phones, laptops, or keys. This can happen when you leave your desk unattended, or when you store your items in an insecure place, such as a locker or a drawer. To prevent this, you should always lock your computer screen when you step away from your desk, and keep your valuables with you or in a safe location. If you have to leave your items in the office, make sure they are not visible or easily accessible to others. You should also avoid leaving any personal information, such as passwords, PINs, or bank statements, on your desk or in your trash bin. If you notice any missing or tampered items, report them to your manager or security personnel as soon as possible.
Personal workplace security is important for every employee, especially during summer when the office may be less busy and more vulnerable to intruders. Remember to be alert to suspicious visitors, pay attention to personal belongings, and report any incidents to the appropriate authorities.
Hands are valuable and vulnerable
It’s easy to take our hands for granted. We use them almost constantly — at times with little or no regard for their safety.
Hands are exposed to many hazards, and while minor injuries are common, serious harm can happen unless proper precautions are taken. Nerve damage, amputation, a skin burn or other soft tissue injury can interfere with your work and productivity. Worse, it could end your career and damage your quality of life.
Common causes of injury range from improper use of tools and lifting or applying force incorrectly, to distraction and lack of focus due to complacency.
Human hands and wrists are a complex system of bones, muscles and tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves. The skin provides a barrier against chemicals, heat and cold. Skin on the back of the hand is thin and elastic and, on the palm, it is thick to provide traction, cushioning and insulation.
Hands are valuable but also vulnerable, and even a small cut can make it difficult and painful to function effectively.
As with many activities, it’s best to work smarter, rather than faster, when using your hands and fingers. Do not count on your reflexes to save them, and do not take short cuts.
Another often-neglected precaution is to keep your hands in a position where you can see them. Avoid putting them out of your line of sight.
Here are some more hand safety tips:
• Check tools and equipment to make sure they are in proper working order before beginning a task.
• Always use machine guards where provided — never remove or alter them without authorization.
• Use appropriate gloves when handling rough materials and when hands are directly involved with lifting or moving objects. Make sure work gloves offer the right combination of dexterity and protection needed for the task.
• Wear gloves to pick up broken glass, nails or other sharp objects, including when sweeping up. Never attempt to handle these things with your bare hands.
• Take time to remove nails, splinters and sharp edges on materials before you begin working with them.
• When moving objects with a hand cart or truck, make sure that you have sufficient room to get through doorways and small spaces with enough clearance for the cart and hands.
• Keep hands free of grease and oil; slippery hands can get you in trouble.
• Use tools and equipment designed for the work being performed and use them as instructed by the manufacturer.
• Keep hands and fingers away from sharp edges (blades, protruding nails, etc.). Never cut toward the palm of your hand.
Move and store gas cylinders properly
Compressed gas cylinders (CGCs) are used for hundreds of different materials, many of them dangerous.
Not only do their contents have the potential for harm, the cylinders themselves can be hazardous if they are misused. Gas cylinders should be used only by persons who have been fully trained to do so.
CGC hazards take several forms including pressure, fire and explosion, chemical burns and asphyxiation.
Many gases are toxic and can cause serious problems, depending upon the specific gas, its concentration, length of exposure and route of entry.
CGCs are large, heavy and awkward to handle. Improper handling or not securing cylinders while in use can cause cylinders to fall, resulting in injury.
When moving compressed gas cylinders, be certain of their contents. Refer to the safety data sheet (SDS) for details on safe handling.
Points to remember when moving or transporting gas cylinders:
• Never move a cylinder that is not capped.
• Use proper lifting cradles or a suitable platform when hoisting cylinders by a crane, derrick or other mechanism.
• Do not lift a cylinder by the valve cap. Never sling with ropes or chains or lift with electromagnets.
• Use a cylinder cart to move cylinders; do not roll or “twirl” them other than for very short distances.
• Do not drag, slide or drop cylinders.
• Do not allow cylinders to strike each other violently or be handled roughly.
• Secure cylinders in an upright position when they are transported by motor vehicle. After moving a cylinder, secure it upright. Use proper stands, clamps, chains or other securing devices at a point approximately 2/3 of the height of the cylinder. It should be placed so the valve handle at the top is easily accessible.
Eye floaters: A fleeting glimpse into ocular health
Eye floaters are a common visual phenomenon experienced by many of us. They appear as small, dark, shadowy shapes that can look like spots, threadlike strands, or squiggly lines. They move as your eyes move and seem to dart away when you try to look at them directly. Often, they are most noticeable when looking at a plain, bright background like a blue sky or a white wall.
Eye floaters come from age-related changes in the vitreous, the jelly-like substance inside our eyes. As we age, the vitreous slowly shrinks and can develop tiny clumps of collagen. These clumps cast shadows on the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye — and these shadows are what we see as floaters.
Other causes could be:
* Inflammation in the eye, such as uveitis, can lead to floaters.
* Conditions like diabetic retinopathy can cause bleeding in the eye, leading to visible spots.
* A more serious cause of floaters can be a retinal tear, where the retina detaches from the back of the eye.
In many cases, eye floaters are not a cause for concern and are simply a nuisance. However, a sudden increase in floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or peripheral vision loss, could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency.
It’s important to see an ophthalmologist if:
* You notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters.
* You see sudden flashes of light.
* There is a loss of peripheral vision, or you see a gray curtain moving across your field of vision.
While eye floaters can be a benign, albeit annoying, part of the aging process, they can sometimes signal more serious conditions. Maintaining regular eye exams and being vigilant about changes in your vision can help ensure that your eyes remain healthy and that any serious issues are addressed promptly.
Coping with insect sting allergy
Whether on the job, on vacation in the woods or puttering in your garden, an insect sting or bite can cause serious and possibly life-threatening harm.
Most of the time, there is just mild pain or itching, but sometimes, more severe effects are caused by an allergy to the sting or bite.
Even after experiencing a normal reaction to insect stings, it is possible to experience a more serious allergic reaction during one’s lifetime. It is important to avoid insect stings whenever possible as well as learn how to respond when someone is suffering from a severe allergic reaction.
There are five insects that cause the majority of allergic reactions in North America — bees, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets and fire ants.
Anaphylaxis is the most serious reaction to allergens. Anaphylaxis can impair breathing, cause a dramatic drop in blood pressure, and affect heart rate. It requires immediate medical treatment, including an injection of epinephrine and a trip to a hospital emergency room. If it isn’t treated properly, anaphylaxis can be fatal.
The best way to avoid problems is to stay away from stinging insects whenever possible. If you know you have severe reactions to insect stings, do not complete work that puts you at great risk of being stung.
Here are some more suggestions:
• Inspect work areas to ensure there are no insect nests that could be disturbed.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants in case of an insect attack.
• Have an EPI pen on hand in case of a sting and ensure your coworkers know where it is.
• If you suspect someone is suffering some type of serious allergic reaction immediately call 911, even if an EPI pen has been used.
It’s important to note that there are other types of reactions that could occur. Some insects inject venom that can cause a toxic reaction. The symptoms appear similar to an allergic reaction, but the underlying mechanism is different.
Insects that might cause a toxic reaction include black widow spiders, brown recluse spiders, scorpions and puss caterpillars (woolly slugs).
Another type of reaction to insect bites and stings is a serum sickness reaction. The symptoms can appear similar to allergies, but might also be similar to having a flu virus.
Symptoms of a toxic reaction vary depending on the insect or spider, the toxicity of the venom, and the amount of venom injected. Most often, symptoms improve or go away within 48 hours. Although hives and difficulty breathing may occur in an allergic reaction, these symptoms will not occur in a toxic reaction. It is possible to have both a toxic reaction and an allergic reaction at the same time. A toxic reaction might require immediate medical care or lead to death. Signs and symptoms of a toxic reaction include:
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Fever.
• Weakness.
• Light-headedness.
• Rapid swelling at the site of the bite or sting.
• Muscle spasms.
• Headache.
• Drowsiness.
• Fainting.
In addition to injecting venom, a sting or bite might also cause an infection that could require medical care. Symptoms of infection could include:
• Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness near the bite or sting.
• Red streaks leading from the bite or sting.
• Pus draining from the bite or sting.
• A fever.
Setting off fireworks safely
Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate special occasions; however, fireworks can also pose serious risks to people, animals, and property if they are not handled properly.
In Canada, fireworks are regulated by the Explosives Act and the Explosives Regulations, which are administered by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). According to NRCan, there are two types of fireworks: consumer fireworks and display fireworks. Consumer fireworks are low-hazard fireworks that are designed for recreational use by the public, such as roman candles, sparklers, fountains, and rockets. Display fireworks are high-hazard fireworks that are designed for professional use by trained and licensed operators, such as shells, cakes, and mines.
Consumer fireworks require a permit from the local authority (such as the municipality or the fire department) to set off, while display fireworks require a fireworks operator certificate from NRCan to set off. In addition, different provinces and territories may have their own rules and restrictions for fireworks use, such as banning certain types of fireworks, setting age limits, or requiring insurance. Therefore, before you buy or use any fireworks, you should check with your local authority and NRCan for the specific regulations in your area.
Before you set off any fireworks, you should follow these general safety tips:
• Only buy fireworks from authorized dealers and check the labels for safety instructions and expiry dates.
• Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open, and flat area away from buildings, trees, power lines, vehicles, and flammable materials.
• Only light one firework at a time and keep a safe distance from the firework after lighting it. Never try to relight a dud or hold a firework in your hand.
• Wear protective eyewear and gloves when handling fireworks and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire.
• Supervise children and pets at all times and do not let them handle or go near fireworks.
• Clean up the fireworks debris after the show and soak the used fireworks in water before disposing of them.
Fireworks can be a fun and festive way to celebrate various occasions, but they can also be dangerous and illegal if they are not used properly. Remember, fireworks are not toys, they are explosives. Use them with caution and respect.
Things to know about massage therapy
Massage therapy is a popular and effective way to relieve stress, pain, and tension in your muscles and joints. It can also improve your blood circulation, immune system, and mental health. However, not all massage therapists are qualified and regulated by the same standards.
Only six provinces have a college of massage therapists that oversees education, training, and practice. These are British Columbia, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. If you live in one of these provinces, you should always look for a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) when you book a massage.
An RMT is a professional who has completed at least 2,200 hours of theoretical and clinical training at an accredited massage therapy school. They have also passed a standardized exam and a criminal record check. An RMT must follow a code of ethics and standards of practice, and participate in continuing education and quality assurance programs. An RMT is also required to have liability insurance and keep records of their clients’ treatments.
By choosing an RMT, you can be assured that you are receiving a safe, effective, and ethical massage treatment that meets the highest standards of the profession. You can also benefit from the fact that most extended health care plans cover massage therapy services provided by an RMT. Additionally, some provinces require a referral from an RMT to access other health care professionals, such as physiotherapists or chiropractors.
If you live in a province that does not regulate massage therapy, or if you travel outside of Canada, you may encounter massage therapists who are not registered or certified by any authority. While some may have adequate training and experience, others may not. There are also some risks such as:
Infection: Proper hygiene and sanitation protocols may not be followed, such
as washing their hands, cleaning their equipment, and changing their linens. This can expose you to harmful bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can cause infections.
Injury: Unregulated massage therapists may not have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform massage techniques safely and effectively. They may apply too much pressure, use inappropriate strokes, or manipulate your joints in a wrong way. This can result in bruises, sprains, strains, fractures, nerve damage, or internal bleeding.
Here are some tips to help you find a reputable and trustworthy massage therapist:
Ask for recommendations from your friends, family, or health care providers. They may have personal experience or knowledge of reliable and qualified massage therapists in your area.
Check credentials. Ask them where they received their training, how long they have been practicing, and what certifications or memberships they have. Look for reputable associations or organizations that have standards and codes of conduct for their members, such as the Canadian Massage Therapist Alliance (CMTA) or the Massage Therapist Association of Alberta (MTAA).
Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for online platforms or websites that allow clients to rate and comment on their massage experiences. Pay attention to the quality, professionalism, and satisfaction of the massage services.
Communicate your expectations and preferences. Before and during the massage, tell the massage therapist what you want to achieve, what areas you want to focus on, and what level of pressure you prefer. Also, let them know if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or injuries that may affect the massage. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any point, speak up or end the session.
What does “supplemented food” mean and where can I get more information?
(NC) You can find a lot of online advice about supplements. But are you familiar with supplemented foods? Some supplements and supplemented foods can have the same ingredients and therefore, should not be used together.
Supplemented foods are foods or drinks in packages with one or more supplemental ingredients added to them, such as caffeine, minerals like calcium, vitamins like vitamin C and amino acids like L-leucine. Some of these products have warnings about consuming supplements and supplemented foods together.
To help you notice these warnings easily, Health Canada brought in new rules that require updated labels for supplemented foods. By January 1st, 2026, all supplemented foods will need to have these new labels, but you might see them earlier.
Supplemented foods with warnings will have an identifier with an exclamation mark and the words “Supplemented” and “Health Canada” on the front of the label, telling you to read warnings written on the back or side of the product. An example of a warning is: “Do not eat or drink on the same day as any other supplemented foods or supplements with the same supplemental ingredients.”
All supplemented foods will have a supplemented food facts table instead of a nutrition facts table. It has the same nutrient information, with a “Supplemented with” section added that shows the type and amount of each supplemental ingredient.
Find out more about supplemented foods and their labels at canada.ca/ supplemented-foods.
How to plan a worry-free summer adventure
(NC) Nothing screams summer like a road trip. Whether you’re embarking on an epic adventure across Canada or exploring a little closer to home, it’s important to be prepared.
First, plan your route ahead of time. No matter how far the destination is, it’s useful to map out the stops you’ll be making in between, including food, fuel and recharging stops to ensure you’ll get to your destination on time. For those extra-long drives, consider taking more breaks or sleeping overnight in a hotel to be well-rested and alert while behind the wheel.
If you’re travelling with young kids, it’s important to bring toys and activities that will keep them occupied. Noise can be a big distraction when driving, so make sure that whatever you bring will encourage quiet time. Movies and books, if car sickness isn’t an issue, can help kids pass the time in relative silence. Stay prepared by always having an emergency roadside kit at your disposal. Important items to include in the kit are jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, matches and candles, bottled water, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit. It may seem like too many items, but it’s
better to be safe than sorry.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with what your auto insurance covers, making sure that your coverage fits your road-tripping needs. Insurance providers often offer roadside assistance, which can add peace of mind for all your summer adventures. With just a few clicks on an app, you can request a tow and be back on the road in no time.
A road trip is also the perfect time to impress your insurer with your great driving skills. Some providers even reward safe driving with discounts, giving you even more incentive to handle those highways like a pro.
Most importantly, make sure your vehicle maintenance is up-to-date and your car is ready to face any weather conditions that may arise. Consider booking an appointment with your mechanic well in advance of your trip, leaving yourself enough time to have any potential issues fixed before you hit the road.
With properly inflated tires that are in good condition, a maintenance check, a fully charged car battery and enough gas in the tank, you’ll be able to get where you’re going with ease.
Car maintenance is essential all year long
Did you know the heat can affect your vehicle? It’s tempting to neglect our vehicle maintenance until the temperature falls again, but it’s vital to take care of your vehicle in the warmer months as well.
Follow these tips to keep your ride in optimal condition throughout the year:
Oil. Keep your vehicle’s engine running smoothly by ensuring it has enough gas, oil and transmission, steering, coolant and brake fluids. If your oil needs changing, do it before the next heat wave hits.
Battery - If the liquids in your battery dry up, it can lose efficiency and compromise the starter’s function. Hot temperatures also increase the heat under the hood and can speed up the onset of battery failure. Be proactive about servicing and replacing your battery, especially before a long trip (batteries usually last 3-5 years). Remember that maintenance-free batteries are not supposed to be opened.
Paint - Your vehicle’s paint suffers under the sun’s rays, resulting in cracking or peeling over time and leaving your vehicle prone to corrosion. Wax your car for extra sun and dust protection and opt for a shaded
parking spot whenever possible. An added bonus is that your seats won’t be as hot as when exposed to the sun.
Storage - If you’re taking a vehicle out of storage, it will need a complete topup and a check-up to ensure it’s ready to go. Vehicles that sit all winter often need their batteries recharged and the oil replaced.
Check under the hood:
Engine belts - There is usually a serpentine belt that runs between the alternator, the fan and several other components. It can deteriorate, become loose, start to squeal, and sometimes just break for no obvious reason. It needs to be in good shape and at the right level of tension. If you see cracks in the belt or small pieces missing, it’s time to replace the belt.
Air filter - The winter’s decaying leaves may be blocking drainage points, windshield-washer nozzles or your car’s air filter. Now might be a good time to buy a new one or take the current one out and give it a cleaning. Many modern cars also have pollen filters or cabin filtration systems, so take a look at those, too. Sometimes these cabin filters are easy to change yourself. When in doubt, consult a qualified technician.
How to recognize the signs of a stroke and act fast
A stroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes, which can cause permanent damage or death. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, there are about 62,000 strokes in Canada each year, and one in four Canadians will have a stroke in their lifetime.
The good news is that up to 80% of strokes are preventable by controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity. The other key to reducing the impact of stroke is to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek immediate medical attention. The faster you get treatment, the better your chances of recovery and minimizing disability.
To help you identify a stroke, remember the acronym FAST, which stands for:
- Face: Is it drooping on one side?
- Arms: Can you raise both arms?
- Speech: Is it slurred or jumbled?
- Time: Call 9-1-1 right away.
Other signs of a stroke may include:
- Sudden weakness, numbness, or tingling in the face, arm, or leg
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
- Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding others
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not ignore them or wait for them to go away. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Zone Comfort
Safety Meeting
Ways to avoid trips and falls in the office
Today’s safety meeting is about trips and falls that can happen in an office environment.
Trips and falls are among the most common causes of injuries and accidents in the office. They can result in bruises, sprains, fractures, or even more serious consequences. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), more than 42,000 workers get injured annually due to fall incidents in Canada.
Some of the common factors that contribute to trips and falls are:
• Poor lighting or visibility.
• Cluttered or obstructed walkways.
• Loose or uneven flooring, carpets, or mats.
• Spills or wet surfaces.
• Wires or cords across the floor.
• Wearing inappropriate footwear.
• Rushing or being distracted.
• Carrying heavy or bulky objects.
Here’s an example of a tripping incident that resulted in a serious injury: A worker was walking to the printer to collect some documents. He was checking his phone for messages and did not notice a loose cable on the floor. He stepped on
the cable and lost his balance hitting his head on the corner of the desk. He had to be taken to hospital by ambulance and suffered a concussion and a fractured skull . He was unable to work for several months and had to undergo surgery and rehabilitation.
To reduce your risk of tripping and falling, consider these tips:
• Keep the work area clean and organized. Remove any unnecessary items or hazards from the floor or walkways.
• Report any spills, leaks, or damaged flooring to the maintenance staff or supervisor as soon as possible. Use warning signs or barriers to alert others of the potential danger.
• Ensure adequate lighting and visibility in all areas of the office. Replace any burnt-out bulbs or faulty switches. Use natural light or task lighting when possible.
• Avoid running cords or wires across the floor. Use cord covers, tape, or cable ties to secure them. If possible, use wireless devices or overhead outlets.
• Wear comfortable and appropriate
footwear that fits well and has good traction. Avoid wearing high heels, sandals, or flip-flops in the office.
• Walk at a reasonable pace and pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid using your phone, reading, or carrying too much while walking. Use handrails or grab bars when using stairs or ramps.
• Use proper lifting techniques and equipment when handling heavy or bulky objects. Do not obstruct your vision or balance. Ask for help or use a cart or dolly when necessary.
If you have slipped and fallen, try to stay calm and assess your condition. If you are not seriously injured, you can try to get up safely by following these steps:
- Roll over onto your side and push yourself up into a sitting position.
- Look for a stable object nearby, such as a chair, table, or wall, that you can use for support.
- Slowly stand up by leaning on the object and pushing yourself up with your arms and legs.
- Check your balance and make sure you are not dizzy or in pain before you move away from the object.
- If you feel any discomfort or weakness, sit down again and call for help.
If you are unable to get up by yourself, or if you suspect that you have a serious injury, such as a fracture or a concussion do not attempt to move and call for help immediately. Wait until help arrives. Follow the advice of your health care provider and inform your employer of any restrictions.
Remember to:
• Report the incident to your supervisor or manager.
• Cooperate with any investigation or corrective actions. Provide feedback or suggestions on how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Read this part of the meeting aloud Comfort Zone is published once a month by Smart Workplace Inc. www.smartworkplace.ca ©2024 Smart Workplace Inc. Subscribers are allowed to make copies of this document for distribution within their location only. For more copies call 1-888-655-4800. The information presented herein has been compiled from various sources believed to be reliable; however it cannot be assumed that all acceptable safety measures are listed. While every effort is made to ensure that information and recommendations contained in this publication are the best current opinions on the topic, no guarantee or warranty is made by Smart Workplace Inc. as to the absolute correctness or sufficiency of the content.
Zone Comfort Zone Comfort
To reduce your risk of falling in the office you should:
A) Wear comfortable and appropriate footwear that fits well.
B) Avoid wearing high heels, sandals, or flip-flops in the office.
C) All of the above.
If you have fallen and are unable to get up by yourself you should wait until help arrives before getting up.
Ways to avoid trips and falls in the office
Trips and falls are among the most common causes of injuries and accidents in the office.
True False True False
If you have fallen at work, you do not have to report the incident to your supervisors or manager. 3
True False
Some of the common factors that contribute to trips and falls are:
A) Clear walkways.
B) Poor lighting or visibility.
C) Footwear with traction.
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), more than 42,000 workers get injured annually due to fall incidents in Canada.
True False
Attendance Sheet
Ways to avoid trips and falls in the office
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