Respecting your peers goes a long way
Walking into your workplace can bring all kinds of emotions with it such as excitement, apprehension, and determination. But the last thing we want to feel is disgust or irritation from that one coworker who simply does not respect our boundaries.
Every one of us is entitled to a decent workplace where we are respected by our peers. Not only do we need respect with regards to the work we do, it’s also important to be respected for the person we are, and we reciprocate that respect in kind.
It’s not difficult to have good manners.
It’s important to remember that the workplace is not a free zone where anything goes. We must work together every day; in fact, we are spending 40 hours or longer per week with each other. Teamwork is an essential component of today’s workplace. Regardless of our job positions or titles, workplace etiquette boils down to our ability to be an effective team member.
Here are a few workplace etiquette tips to consider:
• Mind your volume when talking on your cell phone. People tend to speak three times louder on a cell phone than in person.
Inside this edition
• Protect yourself from car theft
• Loud noise and hearing loss
• E-bike safety
• Safety and the great outdoors
• Minimize the risk of back pain
• Reduce sodium intake
• Eyestrain and digital devices
• Warm weather blackouts
• Fraud prevention
• Protect home from disasters
• Keep screenings up to date
• Guidelines for refinishing
• Caregiver management
• Dry skin vs eczema
• Safety Meeting: Poison hazards
Health and Safety / Work and Home
May 2025 vol 24 issue 05
• Dress appropriately for the workplace. Save the see-through dresses, Lycra bike shorts, muscle shirts, and yoga pants for when you are working from home.
• Avoid “borrowing” from other people’s desks or stealing lunches without permission.
• Clean up your messes, be it in the kitchen or at the copier; don’t expect others to clean up after you.
• Don’t gossip. Over-sharing about your own personal life should also be avoided.
• Be on time to meetings, conference calls, and appointments.
• Just because coworkers behave badly is not a reason for you to follow suit. Always keep your poise and do the right thing, even if you’re doing it alone. It matters and will be noticed.
• If a coworker’s behaviour is infringing upon your ability to perform your job well, address it directly with the individual. Clearly state how their behaviour is impacting you, and, perhaps, others. Kindly request a change of behaviour emphasizing how everyone could benefit from it. If the problem persists and is truly more than a mere annoyance, then bring it to the attention of your supervisor.
• And when a change happens for the better, be sure to say, “thank you.”
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
Protect yourself from car theft
Auto theft has been on the rise in Canada and can affect both personal and commercial vehicle owners. Whether you drive a family car or manage a fleet of delivery trucks, taking proactive measures can help stop theft in its tracks and offer you greater peace of mind. Here are some simple tips to protect your vehicle from being stolen:
Take care when you park. The first step to preventing auto theft is to always lock your doors, close your windows and take your keys with you when parking. Be aware of where you’re parking and be sure to park in garages or busy, well-lit areas whenever possible. Parking between other cars also makes you a lower target for theft. If you have a garage at home, be sure to use it.
Install an anti-theft device. More and more Canadians are turning to GPS-enabled antitheft devices to help protect their vehicles. Not only do these devices deter thieves, but they also help police locate your vehicle if it does get stolen. There are different options available in different provinces, so speak to your insurer to find out what device they recommend. Installing one will not only improve your vehicle’s security but may also help lower your auto insurance premiums.
Be aware of your belongings and key fobs. Never leave money or valuables in plain sight. Even items such as expensive equipment, tools or electronics can attract thieves to your vehicle. It’s also important to keep your keys or keyless fob away from doors and windows. Thieves can use relay attacks to intercept signals from key fobs and unlock vehicles. There are signalblocking pouches and metal containers that can prevent this when your fob is not in use.
Use vehicle identification measures. Consider having your windows and other major car parts marked with your vehicle identification number (VIN). This makes it more difficult for thieves to sell them. If you have a commercial vehicle, consider adding branding to deter theft by making your vehicle easier to track.
Learn more auto theft prevention tips at National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft - Canada.ca
Loud noise a leading cause of hearing loss
Loud noise is a growing threat to hearing health in Canada, yet many of us are unaware of its prevalence and what steps we can take to protect ourselves.
Hearing health non-profit organizations report that noise damage is one of the leading causes of hearing loss today and commonly occurs as the result of cumulative exposure to moderate or loud sounds greater than 85 decibels — noises louder than city traffic. According to Statistics Canada, more than one million adults across the country report a hearing-related disability.
Many jobs expose workers to loud noises that can damage hearing over time. Protecting your hearing on the job is crucial to maintaining your quality of life and preventing long-term health issues.
Prolonged exposure to loud noises can lead to permanent hearing loss. Once damaged, hearing cannot be restored, making prevention essential. Hearing is crucial for detecting alarms, warnings, and other important sounds in the workplace. Protecting your hearing helps ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Here are a few tips for protecting your hearing on the job:
Use hearing protection devices. Wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments. Choose devices with appropriate noise reduction ratings (NRR) for your specific workplace. Limit exposure to loud noises. Take regular breaks from noisy areas to give your ears a rest. If possible, rotate tasks to minimize continuous exposure to loud sounds.
Follow your company’s regulations. Adhere to your workplace’s safety guidelines and regulations regarding noise exposure. Ensure that hearing protection is provided and used correctly.
Maintain equipment. Ensure that machinery and equipment are wellmaintained to minimize excessive noise. Regular maintenance can help reduce noise levels and improve overall safety. Get regular hearing tests. Schedule regular hearing tests to monitor your hearing health. Early detection of hearing loss can help you take preventive measures and seek appropriate treatment.
Reduce background noise. Use soundabsorbing materials and barriers to reduce background noise in the workplace. This can help lower overall noise levels and protect your hearing.
How to ride an e-bike safely
Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
In Canada, an e-bike is defined as a twoor three-wheeled cycle with a maximum power output of 500 watts and a top speed of 32 km/h on level ground. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-bike. Wearing a helmet is mandatory for all e-bike riders.
While there are federal guidelines, each province may have additional rules and requirements. Stay updated on local regulations and laws regarding e-bike usage. Some areas may have specific rules about where e-bikes can be ridden and the maximum allowable speed. Here are a few tips to help you ride your e-bike safely.
• Familiarise yourself with your e-bike’s features and controls. Read the user manual to understand how the motor, battery, and assist levels work. Practice using the throttle and pedal-assist modes in a safe, open area until you feel comfortable.
• Aside from your mandatory helmet, consider additional protective gear such as gloves, knee and elbow pads, and reflective clothing to increase your visibility to other road users.
•Regularly check your e-bike for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that the brakes are functioning properly, the tires are inflated to the correct pressure, and
the battery is fully charged.
• E-bikes are subject to the same traffic laws as traditional bicycles. Obey all traffic signals, signs, and lane markings. Ride in the same direction as traffic and use hand signals to indicate your intentions to other road users.
• Stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for pedestrians, other cyclists, and vehicles. Avoid distractions such as using your phone while riding. Keep an eye out for potential hazards like potholes, debris, and wet or slippery surfaces.
• Equip your e-bike with front and rear lights, especially if you plan to ride at night or in low-light conditions. Reflectors on your bike and clothing can also help increase your visibility to others.
• Anticipate the actions of other road users and be prepared to react. Keep a safe distance from vehicles and avoid riding in blind spots. Be cautious at intersections and always assume that drivers may not see you.
• E-bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, so it’s important to adjust your speed according to the road conditions and traffic. Slow down in crowded areas and when navigating turns or descents.
Choose routes that are bike-friendly and have less traffic. Use dedicated bike lanes and paths whenever possible.
Safety tips for your next outdoor adventure
(NC) With the days growing longer and summer around the corner, many of us are gearing up for another season of outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hitting the open road in a camper, cruising the highway on a motorcycle or off-roading in an ATV, here are some helpful tips to protect yourself and have fun this summer:
Pack the essentials. Packing the right gear can make all the difference in an emergency. Be sure to bring extra fuel, water, snacks, clothing and a first-aid kit. If you’re planning on exploring a remote location or unfamiliar terrain, it’s important to bring navigation tools like a GPS or map, especially in areas where cell service may be unreliable.
Perform a pre-trip safety check. Before revving up your motorcycle, ATV or camper, it’s important to give your vehicle a thorough inspection to ensure it is in top working condition. Check tire pressure, brakes, lights and fluid levels, and ensure you’re wearing a helmet or protective gear to avoid injury.
Know your route. Whether you’re exploring the rugged trails of Newfoundland or Ontario’s scenic cottage country, it’s important to know your route and familiarize yourself with the terrain. Check maps, road conditions and trail accessibility to avoid unnecessary surprises during your ride.
Check your insurance. Before embarking on your next adventure, make sure your rec vehicles are covered by insurance for added peace of mind. Accidents happen, and having the right insurance can cover damages, liability or medical costs if something goes wrong.
Follow provincial regulations and safety guidelines. From trail permits to protective gear laws, every region has a specific set of rules for recreational vehicles. Ensure you’re familiar with the local regulations in your area before heading out and always pack your identification and any necessary permits.
Be alert to changing weather conditions. Canadian weather can be unpredictable, with sudden storms, high winds or extreme heat all in the realm of possibility. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Dress in layers, pack waterproof clothing and seek shelter or shade in case of unanticipated weather events.
Minimize the risks of back pain and injury
Many individuals experience back pain at some point in their lives. In fact, the older we get, the more likely it becomes, as aging is among the leading risk factors.
Whether at work or on your own time, though, a fundamental principle to keep in mind is that overdoing any task can lead to problems. Seemingly harmless activities can cause tissue damage and injury if performed excessively.
The following are some of the primary occupational risk factors that can cause or exacerbate back pain:
• Bending or twisting your spine while it is under a heavy load, such as when picking up objects or pushing/pulling carts.
• Bending or twisting your spine as far as it can go repeatedly or for a prolonged period of time.
• Pushing, pulling, carrying, or lifting objects that are excessively heavy or performing these tasks at a high frequency with lighter objects.
• Prolonged sitting.
A key to maintaining a healthy back is to perform all activities in moderation and to perform a variety of different activities. It also helps to ensure adequate rest breaks that contrast with your work tasks.
For instance, if your work involves prolonged sitting, take breaks to walk, or if it requires extensive standing, take breaks to sit and rest.
Following are some more ways to reduce the risk of back problems:
• Keep your spine still when lifting and
pushing. This can be done by moving through your hips when you bend and twist. The hip joints are designed to produce power through a wide range of motion in contrast to the spine.
• Use proper lifting technique. Spread feet apart about shoulder width. Bend your knees. Securely grip the load. Keep the load close to the body. Tighten stomach muscles. Lift slowly and evenly, avoid rapid, jerky motions and simultaneous lifting and twisting. When changing directions, step in the direction of intended travel, turning the entire body at the hips. Don’t twist at the waist.
• To decrease the risk of vertebra damage from too much load, use mechanical aids or have another person help with heavy lifting.
• If sitting for long periods of time, frequently change your position, and take regular walk breaks. When standing, use good posture, wear soft-soled shoes, use foot supports and do not lock your legs in position.
• Exercise regularly to strengthen and improve flexibility of the back and abdominal muscles. Exercising also lessens the severity of a back injury and promotes the healing process.
• Remember that slips, trips and falls are a leading cause of back injuries. Proper housekeeping of spills and debris, and keeping aisles clear of materials and equipment can significantly reduce the potential for back injuries caused by falls.
• Learn to relax, which can reduce stress and muscular tension that builds in the back during the day.
Simple ways to reduce your sodium intake
While sodium is an essential nutrient found in table salt and many other foods, too much of it can lead to high blood pressure. Most Canadians, including children, eat too much sodium.
Here are some ideas the whole family can get behind to help reduce sodium intake:
• Shop smart. Choose foods like vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and protein-rich foods with little to no added sodium. Use the Nutrition Facts table to choose foods that are lower in sodium. Remember, 5% Daily Value is a little, 15% is a lot.
• Choose fresh over processed foods more often. Did you know that almost 80% of our sodium intake comes from processed and packaged foods? In Canada, breads, cold cuts, cheese, canned soups, and prepared dishes are some of the top contributors to our sodium intakes.
• Prepare healthier meals at home more often. Cook with little or no added salt. Use herbs and spices to flavour foods. Your taste buds will adjust to less salt in your food. Try using basil in pasta, cumin in soups and stews, and thyme or rosemary with chicken or beef.
• Keep with it when eating out. Restaurant meals are often very high in sodium. To cut down on sodium and still enjoy a meal out, ask your server about low-sodium options, and for gravy, sauce and salad dressing to be served on the side. You could also order a smaller portion or share a dish with someone.
Surviving a warm weather blackout
Power outages are often caused by storms or high winds that damage power lines and equipment. It may result in loss of air conditioning, lighting, hot water or running water. Additionally, it will not be possible to recharge cell phones in your home.
During a blackout, follow these steps for safety:
• First, determine if the power outage is confined to your home. If your neighbours still have power, check your circuit breaker panel or fuse box. If the issue is not with a breaker or a fuse, inspect the service wires leading to your house. If the wires are visibly damaged or on the ground, stay at least 10 metres away and notify your electric supply authority. If your neighbours are also without power, contact your electric supply authority. Keep all emergency numbers accessible.
• Turn off all lights, tools, appliances, and electronic equipment to avoid damage from a power surge when power returns. Power restoration can occur more easily without a heavy load on the electrical system. Keep one light on inside and outside to signal when power has been restored.
• Do not use charcoal or gas barbecues, camping heating equipment, or home generators indoors or in garages due to carbon monoxide emissions, which can cause health problems and are lifethreatening.
• Utilize proper candle holders. Never leave lit candles unattended and keep them out of reach of children. Extinguish candles before going to bed.
•Be prepared ahead of time by having a well-stocked emergency kit. It should include essentials such as water, nonperishable items like canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruits and a manual can opener for canned food. Don’t forget a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio and matches. Always handy to have a flashlight with fresh batteries and a Swiss army knife in a known location, so you don’t have to go hunting around looking for them. Check your kit twice a year.
Digital devices can be hard on the eyes
The term digital eye strain refers to vision problems that result from prolonged use of devices such as laptop and desktop computers, tablets, smartphones and hand-held gaming consoles.
Over time with prolonged screen use, the eye muscles can become fatigued, leading to symptoms that include headaches, blurred and double vision, eye dryness, itching and redness, as well as neck and shoulder pain.
Also known as computer vision syndrome, it can result from factors such as:
• Screen glare.
• Poor lighting.
• Poor posture.
• Viewing a computer at the wrong distance and angle.
• Uncorrected vision problems.
• A combination of these factors.
To reduce the potential for eye strain, cutting down on the number of hours spent looking at a digital screen isn’t an option for most people — at least not at work. Neither is trying to put up with the discomfort, because your productivity is bound to suffer to some extent.
Creating a better work environment is often recommended. This can involve:
• Resting the eyes at least 15 minutes after each 2 hours of computer or digital device use.
• Every 20 minutes, looking into the distance at least 20 feet away from the screen for at least 20 seconds.
• Enlarging the text on your screen.
• Reducing glare from light sources.
• Using a screen glare filter.
• Placing your screen so the centre of it is about 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 inches) below eye level (about 15 to 20 degrees from the horizontal).
• Placing your screen about about an arm’s length from your eyes.
• Blinking often. This creates tears that lubricate the eyes, which minimizes the risk of dry eye that can result from staring at a digital screen too long.
• Fixing your chair height so your feet can rest comfortably on the floor. Don’t slump over the computer screen.
Digital device-related vision problems often can be alleviated by obtaining regular eye care. A comprehensive eye examination might also reveal hidden health problems.
For instance, if you have an underlying dry eye issue, your optometrist might advise using lubricating drops, treating allergies, drinking more fluids and/or taking a prescription medicine to increase tear production.
Some computer users experience problems that can’t be adequately corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. A program of vision therapy may be needed. This is a structured program of activities to improve visual abilities. It trains the eyes and brain to work together more effectively. These eye exercises help remediate deficiencies in eye movement, eye focusing, and eye teaming and reinforce the eye-brain connection.
Protecting your home from floods and wildfires
(NC) While we all look forward to the arrival of spring, it also brings a higher risk of extreme weather that could impact your home. As snow melts and temperatures rise, it’s important to stay aware of potential flooding and wildfire risks.
Here are a few proactive steps you can take to protect your home and family this season:
Assess your flood risk. When it comes to potential water damage, there are many factors to consider, including where you live, the weather and the type of property you own. Consider getting a water damage risk assessment from a qualified professional to give you a helpful view into how high your risk of flood damage could be.
Keep water away from your home. Spring is the perfect time to clear your gutters and downspouts, which play an important role in directing water away from your foundation. Make sure your gutters are free of debris and extend at least six feet from your home to prevent water pooling. You may also want to consider installing a sump pump with a backup battery to protect your basement from flooding, especially during heavy spring rains.
Reduce fire hazards around property. Wildfires are becoming more common, especially in dry regions. Spring is a great opportunity to do yard work to ensure your property is protected from this risk. Keep your landscaping well-maintained by trimming your lawn, pruning trees and using rock or gravel mulch. Make sure to remove flammable debris like dry leaves and dead branches from your property.
Use fire-resistant materials. If you’re in the process of building or renovating, consider using fire-resistant roofing and siding to reduce fire risk. Triple-paned windows and fire-rated exterior doors can also help prevent fire from entering your home through vulnerable areas.
Things your bank would never ask you
(NC) Financial scams and fraud come in many different forms. Sometimes they arrive in the form of a text message, email or phone call, and often are designed to look like they’re coming from your bank.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, a common type of financial fraud involves scammers posing as bank employees to trick their victims into disclosing their banking or personal information.
Countless Canadians have seen these fraudulent messages. Sometimes they’re as simple as a text or email that says the potential victim’s bank account has been frozen, with a link to a fake website where the user is encouraged to enter personal information to “unlock” their account. Other times these scams involve the fraudster phoning a potential victim and pretending to be a bank employee who needs their help as part of a fraud investigation.
Ultimately, the goal of many of these scams is to steal the victim’s personal or banking information to gain access to their accounts, or to get the victim to wire money or purchase gift cards and send the funds to the fraudster.
Strict rules around legitimate banking communications
While your bank does require you to disclose certain personal information to confirm your identity and provide you with services, there are strict rules governing what they can ask you to disclose, and how they’re allowed to do it.
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to learn what your bank would never do or ask you to do. Your bank would never:
• Call you to ask for personal information.
• Ask you to keep a secret or be dishonest.
• Threaten to cancel your services or ask to remote into your device.
• Try to rush you into doing something.
• Ask you to help with an investigation.
• Ask you to purchase gift cards or cryptocurrency.
• Ask you to transfer money as part of an investigation.
• Request access to your computer.
Here are some other tips to help you stay safe from fraudsters:
Get educated. Understand your responsibilities as an accountholder or cardholder. This information is provided by your bank. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre can also help you learn more about common fraud scams.
Enable two-factor authentication. Investigate the security settings of your email provider, social media platforms and banking apps, and enable twofactor authentication wherever available. This offers a higher level of security for your online profiles.
Guidelines for refinishing
Reuse, recycle, repurpose! Many believe the three R’s are one of the ways to helping the planet by reducing waste. Finding that perfect old piece of furniture at a flea market or yard sale is also a fun way to spend a Saturday morning.
But, while bringing old furniture back to life can be a fun project, there are hazards involved. As you pick up refinishing products, you’ll notice many have hazard symbols on them.
Here are some tips to make sure you stay safe as you bring new life to your old furniture.
1. Read the label on all refinishing products you buy. Follow all safety and usage instructions on the label, including how to dispose of leftover product.
2. Work in an area with lots of ventilation. Refinish old furniture outdoors, if weather permits. If you work inside, open the windows.
3. Do not use sanders, heat guns or blowlamps. This can create dust and fumes that contain lead.
4. Keep children and pregnant women away from the work area. This will help ensure their safety.
5. Always wear safety glasses, gloves and a good-quality breathing mask. The product label will provide more detailed information on personal safety equipment you should use.
When was your last cancer
screening?
Could you be at risk?
Regular cancer screenings are a crucial part of maintaining health and wellbeing. It’s important to follow the recommended guidelines and consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for you based on your risk factors and family history.
Cancer screenings can detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. Early detection often leads to better outcomes and higher survival rates. Some screenings, like colonoscopies, can prevent cancer by identifying and removing precancerous polyps.
Screenings provide valuable information that can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your health.
Here is the run down of the types of cancer screenings available:
For Women
Breast cancer screening
Mammogram: Recommended for women aged 50-74 every two years. Women with a higher risk may start earlier and have more frequent screenings.
Clinical Breast Exam: Performed by a healthcare professional during routine check-ups.
Cervical cancer screening
Pap Test: Recommended for women aged 25-69 every three years. It detects abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cancer.
HPV Test: Sometimes used alongside the Pap test to check for the presence
of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types.
For Men
Prostate cancer screening
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that measures PSA levels, which can be elevated in prostate cancer. Discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of this test.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where a doctor feels the prostate for abnormalities.
For Both
Lung cancer screening
Low-Dose CT Scan: Several provinces have established programs (B.C. and Ontario) or pilot programs (Quebec and Alberta), and more are planning to implement them. Check with your health care provider. Recommended for adults aged 55-74 who have a significant smoking history. It can detect lung cancer at an early stage.
Skin cancer screening
Skin exam: Regular self-exams and professional skin exams can help detect changes in moles or new growths that could be cancerous.
Colorectal cancer screening
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Recommended for adults aged 50-74 every two years. It checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of cancer.
Colonoscopy: Recommended for those at higher risk or if FOBT results are positive. It allows direct visualization of the colon and removal of polyps.
Understanding the differences between dry skin and eczema
Dry skin and eczema are common skin conditions that can cause discomfort and affect your quality of life. While they share some similarities, they are distinct in their causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Dry skin, also known as xerosis, occurs when the skin loses moisture and becomes rough, flaky, and sometimes itchy. Causes of xerosis include cold, dry weather which is common in Canadian winters, hot showers or baths, harsh soaps and detergents, dehydration and aging.
Symptoms include:
- Rough, scaly, or flaky skin.
- Itching.
- Redness.
- Cracks in the skin.
Eczema or atopic dermatitis, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and swollen patches. It often has a genetic component and can be triggered by allergens, irritants, or stress.
Symptoms include:
- Intense itching.
- Red, inflamed skin.
- Dry, scaly patches.
- Blisters or oozing sores.
Dry skin is primarily due to environmental factors and lifestyle choices, while eczema has a genetic component and can be triggered by allergens and irritants. Dry skin is generally less severe, with roughness and flakiness, whereas eczema involves intense itching, inflammation, and sometimes blisters. Both conditions benefit from moisturizing, but eczema often requires additional anti-
inflammatory treatments and trigger management.
If you have persistent or severe symptoms, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice, but here are a few tips that may help mild cases of dry skin or flare ups of eczema:
For dry skin:
1. Use a good quality moisturizer, especially after bathing. Look for products containing ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
2. Take lukewarm showers and baths to prevent further drying of the skin.
3. Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps and cleansers to avoid irritation.
4. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
5. Use a humidifier during the winter months to add moisture to the air.
For eczema:
1. Use thick, emollient creams or ointments to keep the skin hydrated and reduce flare-ups.
2. Keep a diary to track potential triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
3. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or prescription medications can help reduce inflammation and itching.
4. Add colloidal oatmeal or baking soda to lukewarm bathwater to soothe the skin.
5. Choose cotton clothing and avoid wool or synthetic materials that can irritate the skin.
6. Try stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Navigating serious illness: A caregiver’s guide
(NC) Becoming a caregiver for someone living with a serious illness can be challenging. You may find yourself taking on several new responsibilities, which can be physically and emotionally demanding. But, being a caregiver can be manageable.
Here are five tips to help you get started. Understand the illness and what comes next. Have conversations with the person you are caring for and with their care team. Ask questions to understand the treatment plan, what health and social supports are available and where your help may be needed. Reach out to illness-specific organizations in your community and seek information from credible medical websites. Seek outside support. Don’t try to do everything on your own, the patient’s care team can connect you to outside supports. A palliative approach to care can help alleviate fatigue you may be feeling. You and the person you are caring for can receive help from community volunteers, social workers and personal support workers who can visit regularly or as needed. It can also help improve quality of life while reducing stress for everyone and can provide valuable resources for caregivers.
Communicate often. Be sure to ask the person you are caring for what they want and have open conversations about what is most important to them. Find out if they have an advance care plan or someone to make decisions for them if needed –especially when it comes to treatment, living situations and finances. Make sure they understand your needs and you understand theirs in this new dynamic.
Find grief support. Caring for someone living with a serious illness can bring many emotions, including grief. You might feel it as their health changes, as your role in the relationship shifts, or as you think about the future. Grief support can help throughout different stages of caregiving as well as after a loss.
Take care of yourself. Caregivers may experience burnout. It is important to take steps to prevent it. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep, eat well and take time to do something you enjoy once a day. Staying connected with others is also very important. Getting outside help can make it easier to take time for yourself and recharge. Learn more at canada.ca/palliative-care.
Zone Comfort
Safety Meeting
Read this part of
Keep poison hazards under control
Today’s safety meeting is about avoiding accidental exposure to hazardous substances.
Workers are exposed to poisonous substances every day. Accidental exposure can be prevented under many circumstances, so it only makes sense to follow safe handling and storage practices whenever possible.
There are three ways exposure can occur:
Inhalation. Airborne vapours, dusts and fibres can cause health effects ranging from headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems to far more serious, sometimes even fatal ailments.
Absorption. Skin and eye contact can irritate or burn and cause serious eye damage, recurring allergies, or a variety of other problems. Some poisons can enter the bloodstream through the skin, leading to very serious problems, such as organ damage.
Ingestion. Swallowing a poisonous substance could occur unintentionally if it gets on food, a coffee mug or even hands. Whenever possible, it is always best to avoid using a toxic material, either by eliminating it or by substituting a less hazardous material. Unfortunately, this approach does not always get the job done effectively.
When working with or around a particular substance, it is important to consult its safety data sheet (SDSs) to find out about all its hazards. When substituting, caution must be exercised to avoid introducing a more hazardous situation.
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety advises taking these basic precautions with toxic substances:
• Follow the work practices specified by your employer, who must provide specific
training on how to work safely with toxic materials at your worksite.
• Ensure that engineering controls, such as ventilation, are operating.
• Report ventilation failures, leaks or spills to your supervisor immediately.
• Store, handle and use toxic materials in well-ventilated areas away from combustible and other incompatible materials.
• Wear personal protective equipment specified for the job. This might include respiratory protection, goggles, face shield and clothing made from materials that protect against the chemicals being handled.
• Be aware of the typical overexposure symptoms and appropriate first aid procedures. Report any signs of illness immediately to your supervisor.
• To prevent spillage, use proper tools to open containers and to transfer material.
• Keep containers closed when not in use.
• Keep only the smallest amounts possible in the work area.
• Do not return contaminated or unused toxics back to the original container.
• Practice good housekeeping, personal cleanliness and proper equipment maintenance.
• Know how to handle emergencies involving the toxic materials you work with. Waste toxic material must be disposed of properly. Careless disposal presents a potential hazard to individuals who might not be trained or equipped to deal with it (caretaking staff, garbage collectors, plumbers, water treatment plant workers, firefighters, etc.). Careless disposal also can cause significant damage to the environment.
Another very important consideration is that toxic materials might be transported from work to home. Here are some measures to avoid that:
• Be careful when removing contaminated work clothing and PPE. Remove items from the upper body first and work your way down. When you unfasten contaminated snaps and zippers, wear gloves or hold the clothing from the inside. Remove gloves last by peeling them off, touching only the inside of the glove as it is rolled down.
• Shower or wash thoroughly before going home.
• Wash immediately and carefully after handling toxic chemicals and before eating, drinking, smoking, using the toilet or applying cosmetics.
• Store street clothes separate from work clothes and away from any possible poisonous substances.
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Swallowing a poisonous substance could occur unintentionally if it gets on food, a coffee mug or even hands.
Some
When working with or around a particular substance, it is important to consult its safety data sheet (SDSs) to find out about all its hazards.
You should be careless when removing contaminated work clothing and PPE. 4
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Keep poison hazards under control
Whenever possible, it is always best to avoid using a toxic material, either by eliminating it or by substituting a less hazardous material 5
Airborne vapours, dusts and fibres do not cause health effects ranging from headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems.
Sheet Zone Comfort Zone Comfort
Attendance
Keep poison hazards under control Date of Meeting: ____________________________
Have meeting attendees sign this sheet: