<![CDATA[American Society of Safety Professionals Southern Oregon Chapter - News]]>Fri, 15 May 2026 21:34:08 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[President's Message]]>Fri, 15 May 2026 19:52:26 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/presidents-message2417808Jeff Mook, Chapter President 

​​The Southern Oregon Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals has officially approved the slate for the 2026–2027 chapter year. I would like to first thank those who volunteered on the Nominations and Elections committee.  I would also like to thank all the members who took the time to attend, participate in discussions, and cast their vote during this important process. Member participation is one of the things that keeps a professional organization strong, and your involvement helps ensure our chapter continues moving forward with leadership that reflects the voice, values, and goals of our membership.
 
The slate approval process is far more than a yearly formality. It is one of the ways members directly influence the future direction of the chapter and help shape the experience we provide to safety professionals throughout Southern Oregon. Strong chapters are not built by a small group of people working in isolation. They are built through participation, collaboration, volunteerism, and the willingness of members to engage in the process. Whether that participation comes through attending meetings, sharing ideas, volunteering at events, serving on committees, mentoring others, or stepping into leadership roles, every contribution strengthens our chapter and helps us continue fulfilling the mission of ASSP.
 
Volunteer leadership is especially important in organizations like ours. Every chapter officer, committee chair, and volunteer contribute their time outside of their regular professional and personal responsibilities because they believe in the value of the safety profession and the importance of building a strong local safety community. That commitment deserves recognition and appreciation.
 
I would like to congratulate all the members who will be serving in leadership roles during the 2026–2027 chapter year. Whether you are stepping into a brand-new position, returning to a role you have previously held, serving on the executive committee for the first time, or continuing years of dedicated service to the chapter, what you are doing matters. Leadership within ASSP is not measured by titles or positions. It is measured by the willingness to contribute, support others, and help create opportunities that benefit the profession as a whole. The work done behind the scenes — planning meetings, coordinating events, communicating with members, supporting professional development opportunities, and helping guide the chapter forward — has a real and lasting impact.
 
As I transition from the role of chapter president into the past president position for the 2026–2027 chapter year, I want to sincerely thank the membership for the opportunity to serve as president during 2025–2026. It has truly been an honor and a privilege. I did not take this responsibility lightly, and I have always tried to approach this role with gratitude, professionalism, and a genuine desire to serve the membership and support the mission of ASSP.
 
Serving as president has given me the opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals who care deeply about protecting people, improving workplaces, and advancing the safety profession. It has also reinforced something I have long believed — that strong professional communities are built through relationships, shared purpose, and people who are willing to invest in one another. I am incredibly proud of what this chapter continues to accomplish and thankful for the encouragement and support I have received throughout my time serving in this role.
 
The future of the Southern Oregon ASSP chapter is bright. I am excited for the incoming leadership team and confident they will continue building upon the strong foundation that already exists within this chapter. I look forward to continuing to support the chapter in my new role and watching the continued growth, development, and positive impact this organization will have on safety professionals and the communities we serve.]]><![CDATA[​Start-Work Authority: Why Safety Should Begin Before the First Step]]>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/start-work-authority-why-safety-should-begin-before-the-first-stepStop-work authority has been an integral part of safety for decades now. And for good reason. Giving employees the power – and the expectation – to stop a job when something isn’t right is a cornerstone of a strong safety culture. It prevents injuries, protects equipment, and reinforces a simple truth: production never outranks safety. 

But there’s an uncomfortable reality in that framing. By the time we’re stopping work, we’re already in the job. 

What if safety didn’t start with stopping?
What if it started with deciding whether we’re truly ready to begin?

That’s the bedrock idea behind adopting a start-work authority process. 

Start-work authority treats the beginning of a task as a deliberate decision point, not an automatic reflex. Work doesn’t start just because it’s scheduled. It starts because the conditions are right, the risks are understood, and the people and equipment are ready. 

Let’s take the industry of aviation as an example. Before a plane ever leaves the ground, pilots don’t rely on memory or assumptions – they use checklists. Systems are verified. Conditions are reviewed. Readiness is confirmed. The question isn’t “Can we deal with a problem if it shows up?” It’s “Have we done what we need to do to make sure we’re actually ready to go?” 

Start-work authority brings that same discipline into everyday work. 

A strong start-work authority process usually covers four big areas: 

1.       Task readiness
Supervisors help make sure the team actually understands what’s about to happen. What’s the scope of the job? Is it routine, or has something changed – tools, location, timing, materials, or people? Clarifying the plan up front prevents quiet assumptions from turning into real hazards. 

2.       Hazard awareness
This is where supervisors set the tone for what “good” looks like. They don’t just ask, “Any hazards?” They help guide the conversation: Where’s the line of fire? What energy is involved? What’s different today? What could realistically go wrong? Their role isn’t to have all the answers – it’s to make sure the right questions get asked before work starts. 
 
3.       Control and equipment readiness
This is the “checklist” part of start-work authority. Supervisors verify that machines are in the correct starting condition, guards and safety devices are in place, lockout or permits are applied when required, and the work area is actually ready for the task. Just like a pilot wouldn’t skip a pre-flight check, we shouldn’t skip confirming that the system is truly safe to operate. 

4.       People readiness
Yes – this matters too, but it’s only one piece of the whole. Supervisors confirm that employees have the right PPE for the job (not just some PPE), that clothing and hair are appropriate for the task, and that the person doing the work is trained and confident for what they’re about to do. If the job changes, the readiness check changes with it. 
 
When supervisors are engaged in all four areas, start-work authority becomes more than a quick PPE check—it becomes a shared decision that the job is ready to begin. 

This is also where start-work authority pairs naturally with stop-work authority. Stop-work authority protects people when conditions change, or something is missed. Start-work authority reduces the chances that you step into a bad situation in the first place. One prevents bad continuations. The other prevents bad beginnings. Both depend on visible, consistent leadership. 

So how do you make this real? 

1.       Set the expectation that work doesn’t start by default.
Leadership needs to consistently reinforce that starting work is a decision, not a habit. A brief pause, huddle, or start-work check becomes the normal way work begins – not an exception when something feels wrong. 

2.       Give teams a simple, practical structure.
Think “pilot checklist,” or simple “pre-task.” A short list of prompts – task, hazards, controls, people – gives supervisors and crews a shared way to confirm readiness without having to try and remember everything. 
 
3.       Build it into everyday supervision.
Start-work authority should show up in how leadership plans work, checks conditions, and talks with their teams before the job begins. When leaders routinely verify readiness – and not just speed – it sends a clear message about what really matters. 

4.       Back it up and connect it to stop-work authority.
When a supervisor or employee says, “We’re not ready yet,” that pause has to be supported – every time. That means work does not start. We should never hear, “We’ll stop if something comes up”. Start-work authority and stop-work authority should reinforce each other, not compete with each other. 

Most serious incidents don’t start with one big dramatic failure. They start with rushed beginnings, missed checks, and unspoken assumptions. Start-work authority is how you break that pattern – by making the start of the job a conscious, supervised, and shared decision. 

Because the safest work doesn’t just stop when it gets dangerous. 
​
It starts when leaders and crews agree it’s truly ready.

Jeffrey Mook
Boise Cascade Region Safety Coordinator
​Southern Oregon ASSP President
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

]]><![CDATA[​2026-27 Slate of Officers for Southern Oregon Chapter of ASSP]]>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:56:29 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/2026-27-slate-of-officers-for-southern-oregon-chapter-of-asspJames Moulsdale, Communications Coordinator

I am pleased to announce that the chapter nominations committee has completed the nomination selection process and the slate is set.  The elections will occur at the general meeting in May.  The vote will be for the slate, but recognize that actual elected positions are the President, who automatically ascends to the role from the Vice President position, the Vice President, the Secretary, the Treasurer, the Membership Chair, and the Programs Coordinator.  The current president becomes the immediate Past-President. The remaining positions are appointed and are on the slate for affirmation of their appointment and informational criteria.   All of these positions are voting members of our chapters executive board. Open slots in the appointed position, such as the Government Affairs role, will be filled by the President appointing the candidate.  This position was not filled specifically because of candidate access and availability.

​This vote will be in-person at the May 5th monthly chapter meeting.
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]]><![CDATA[February Meeting Preview: Practical Conversation Scenarios with Scott Shumway]]>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 22:46:15 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/february-meeting-preview-practical-conversation-scenarios-with-scott-shumwayOne of the highlights of last October’s Safety Conference was the all-day Professional Development Course led by Scott Shumway of Emiment. Scott introduced many of us to practical leadership and communication strategies drawn from FOCUS Leadership and systems thinking. These approaches are great help for safety professionals to navigate competing priorities, organizational constraints, and the human side of change.
The session sparked great discussion, but we simply ran out of time before reaching the portion Scott was leading up to live, realistic scenarios showing how conversations between safety professionals and supervisors can unfold and how they can be improved.

Why These Conversations Matter
Every safety professional has experienced moments where the technical risk was clear but the conversation about it wasn’t. What often makes the difference isn’t just what you know, it’s how you communicate it. With Scott’s approach, you don’t have to choose sides instead, reframe the issue so participants can:
  • understand the underlying drivers behind safety vs. production tension,
  • recognize how good intentions can unintentionally fuel conflict,
  • learn practical tools to move conversations from resistance to cooperation, and
  • build alignment that improves both safety outcomes and operational performance.
These are not “soft skills”, they are practical tools that improve safety outcomes, build trust, and strengthen workplace culture in measurable ways.

What to Expect in February
At our February meeting, Scott will return specifically to run through the interactive portion we missed in October. He will guide us through real-world dialogue scenarios that mirror the kinds of exchanges happening every day on our sites. This is a chance to see how small changes in language, structure, and approach can completely change the trajectory of a conversation.
This session will be practical and interactive, not just theoretical.

This Session Is for Everyone
Although this is a continuation of the October PDC, you do not need to have attended that session to benefit. The skills we’ll practice apply to anyone who:
  • engages with field supervision
  • leads teams or sits at the intersection of safety and operations
  • wants to improve influence, clarity, or collaboration
  • deals with competing goals, ambiguity, or resistance
If you’ve ever left a conversation thinking, “That didn’t go the way I hoped,” this session is designed for you.

Meeting Details
Date & Time: February 3rd — meeting starts at noon (come early for food and fellowship)
Location: Ethos Academy
Address: 4414 S Pacific Hwy, Phoenix, OR 97535
We look forward to seeing you for an engaging and highly practical discussion with Scott that will help you take what you already do well and communicate it even more effectively in challenging situations.
​
Hope to see you there,
Jeffrey Mook]]><![CDATA[Safety for 2026]]>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 22:56:02 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/safety-for-2026
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James Moulsdale, Communications Coordinator
2026 is just about here and as we make preparations for life and business next year, I hope you all consider the following suggestions from January Safety Topics for 2025: Building a Safer Workplace
 
Safety Resolutions for the New Year
The start of a new year is the perfect time for employees to set personal and professional safety goals. Encourage your team to reflect on the past year’s safety incidents or near misses and consider areas for improvement. Resolutions might include:
  • Reviewing and if necessary, revising safety and health policies
  • Consistently wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Actively participating in safety meetings and training sessions.
  • Reporting hazards or unsafe conditions without hesitation.
  • Learning first Aid/CPR
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
The increased use of heating appliances during winter raises the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This invisible, odorless gas is extremely dangerous and requires careful monitoring. Employees should be educated about:
  • Proper ventilation when using heaters or fuel-burning equipment.
  • Recognizing symptoms of CO poisoning, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
  • Testing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors in the workplace and at home.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of CO-related incidents, ensuring everyone stays safe and healthy.
 
Electrical Safety for Winter Devices
Winter devices like space heaters, heated blankets, and holiday decorations can present electrical hazards if not used correctly. To prevent accidents, emphasize best practices, including:
  • Inspecting electrical cords and plugs for fraying or damage.
  • Avoiding the use of extension cords with high-power devices.
  • Ensuring all devices are turned off and unplugged when not in use.
Regular inspections and adherence to safety protocols can minimize risks and keep employees safe from electrical accidents.
 
Ladder and Elevated Surface Safety
Tasks such as clearing snow, maintaining rooftops, or accessing elevated storage areas often require ladders during winter. Reinforce ladder safety by addressing:
  • Inspecting ladders for structural integrity before use.
  • Maintaining three points of contact while climbing.
  • Avoiding ladder use in icy or windy conditions.
Providing training and appropriate equipment ensures employees are prepared to work safely at heights.
 
Safe Storage Practices
January is often a time for organizing and storing seasonal items. Improper storage practices can lead to injuries or damage. Topics to highlight include:
  • Correct stacking methods to avoid falling objects.
  • Using appropriate lifting techniques or equipment for heavy items.
  • Labeling hazardous materials and securing them properly.
​
By promoting safe storage habits, organizations can minimize risks and maintain a clutter-free work environment.
]]><![CDATA[President’s Message - Jeff Mook]]>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 22:53:32 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/presidents-message-jeff-mookPicture
As we move into a new month, I want to take a moment to reflect on the role that learning and professional development play in the work we do as safety professionals. Our effectiveness is shaped not only by what we know today, but by our willingness to continue learning as our field evolves.
 
Safety is not static. Standards change, compliance expectations shift, and new research continues to inform us how to better protect the people who go home at the end of every shift. Staying current is part of our responsibility—not just to our organizations, but to the employees who trust our judgment and guidance.
 
One of the things I value most about our Southern Oregon Chapter is the commitment to learning that shows up every month. Our meetings bring together safety professionals from different industries, experience levels, and perspectives, all willing to share knowledge and learn from one another. That participation—asking questions, exchanging ideas, and staying engaged—is what strengthens our local safety community.
 
Beyond our chapter discussions, there are wide ranges of professional training and educational resources available through ASSP that support continued growth in our field. These include webinars, courses, technical guidance, and professional development opportunities that help safety professionals stay informed and capable in a changing environment. Many of these resources are designed to be practical, timely, and directly applicable to the challenges we face in our workplaces. Just a few of such resources are listed below. Whether you access learning through chapter meetings, professional resources, peer conversations, or independent study, the most important thing is staying engaged. Participation - showing up, staying curious, and continuing to develop—strengthens not only your own skill set, but the safety culture within your organization.
 
Our chapter exists to support that growth. No matter where you are in your career, you belong in this conversation. Your experiences, insights, and questions matter, and they contribute to making all of us better at what we do.
As we close out this year and continue into the next, I encourage each of you to consider your own development. What new training could help you stay current? What resources might support your success? And how can ASSP—both locally and nationally—support your journey? Please bring any suggestions you may have to a chapter meeting to discuss.

With gratitude,
Jeffrey Mook
President, Southern Oregon ASSP Chapter
]]><![CDATA[Jeff Mook - President's Message]]>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 18:24:39 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/jeff-mook-presidents-messagePicture
Why your organization should be attending the Southern Oregon Safety & Health Conference
October 14-16, 2025 ∙ Ashland Hille Hotel, Ashland, OR
The strength of any organization lies in its people—their skills, their commitment, and their ability to work together toward shared goals. When it comes to safety, leadership, and workplace culture, the Southern Oregon Safety & Health Conference offers an unmatched opportunity to strengthen all three. This year’s conference is more than just an event. It’s an investment in the resilience, compliance, and effectiveness of your organization.

The program begins with a full-day Professional Development Course led by Scott Shumway of Emiment LLC. His specialty is conflict resolution, but his impact goes far beyond teaching people how to settle disagreements. Through hands-on, real-world practice, Scott equips attendees with skills that improve communication, foster collaboration, and prevent the kind of tension that can derail productivity and morale. Imagine the benefits of having supervisors, managers, or safety committee members who can transform conflict into cooperation. Those improvements ripple outward, boosting employee satisfaction and saving organizations from costly turnover and unresolved disputes.

The following two days of the conference expand the scope, offering multiple tracks in safety, industrial hygiene, human resources, construction, and leadership. Every session is designed with immediate application in mind. Attendees leave not just with ideas but with tools they can put to work the moment they return—whether that means ensuring compliance with OSHA standards, strengthening safety committees, or improving daily practices on the jobsite.

For organizational leaders, the value of sending employees is clear: safer operations, fewer incidents, lower costs, and a workforce that feels invested in and supported. The knowledge gained at this conference can prevent accidents, reduce claims, and provide clarity on complex compliance requirements. Approving attendance signals a commitment to both employee development and workplace safety, two factors that drive retention, morale, and organizational reputation.

For employees eager to attend, the conference is a chance to grow professionally while directly supporting company goals. By attending this conference, you will have the opportunity to bring back to your organizations, new strategies for compliance, proven approaches to conflict resolution, and insights that can be shared with the entire team through presentations, training sessions, and vendor knowledge. This isn’t just personal development; it’s professional growth that multiplies value across the organization.

At its core, the Southern Oregon Safety & Health Conference creates a bridge between individual learning and organizational progress. When you attend, your leaders gain a safer, stronger, and more informed workforce which leads to employees becoming a catalyst for positive change in their workplaces.
Mark your calendar and take advantage of an opportunity that benefits both people and the organizations they serve.  Get registered early to take advantage of early-bird pricing.

​- Jeff Mook
]]><![CDATA[September 19th is Concussion Awareness day]]>Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:15:54 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/september-19th-is-concussion-awareness-day​Information below is from TBI in the Workplace Facts | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC
 
Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are most commonly associated with sports activities, but these injuries also occur in the workplace. Research shows that some workers may be at increased risk for TBI. Some examples include those who work in construction, freight trucking, and services to building industries, as well as military and law enforcement service members.
 
Symptoms
TBI symptoms may include problems with thinking, concentration, reaction time, and emotions, as well as feeling more tired than usual. Some symptoms may affect a person's ability to do their normal work activities. Symptoms may last for months or even years. And for some, symptoms may involve co-occurring health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.
 
What to do
Healthcare providers have treatments available to help support recovery from a TBI, including symptoms related to mental and physical health. They can also provide instructions on when a worker can safely return to work and list any needed supports or accommodations.
Employers can connect an employee to an Employee Assistance Program and offer support services, including mental health support, when the person returns to work to help speed their recovery.
 
Returning to work
Returning to work after a TBI is different for each person and depends on many factors, including:
  • Severity of the injury and symptoms
  • Tasks employees are required to perform as part of their job
  • Types of symptoms people are experiencing
Some people with a TBI can return to work within a couple of days of their injury and may only need short-term support or accommodations during their recovery, like rest breaks during the day or earplugs to limit sensitivity to noise. Others may need weeks, months, or longer before returning to work. Some people may not be able to return to work (or the same type of employment) due to long-term disability or persistent symptoms.
 
Workers may need more time off if a job requires:
  • Working from heights, including climbing a roof or ladder, or the risk of falling
  • Exposure to explosions, blasts, or projectiles
  • Intense physical activity, such as running and heavy lifting
  • Attention or concentration
  • Driving
  • Operating machinery or heavy equipment
  • High-stress or safety risks, such as work with hazardous materials
These activities may make an employee's symptoms worse or increase their chance for another brain injury during recovery.
 
A healthcare provider may recommend employers make changes to an employee's tasks or schedule during their recovery. Examples include:
  • Rest breaks, shortened work schedule, or a later start time
  • Time to take short walks or other similar light physical activity
  • Temporary transfer to a position with tasks that don't worsen symptoms
  • Access to sunglasses, earplugs, or headphones if bothered by light or noise
  • Reduced driving or physical activity
  • Extended time to complete tasks
  • Reduced screen time, such as on computers and tablets
  • Limited or no use of machinery or heavy equipment
  • Access to assistive technology to help perform tasks, like screen reading and magnification software
 
The jobs of public safety officers (such as law enforcement, correctional officers, firefighters, and emergency medical care providers) can include tasks that involve intense physical activity, operating vehicles, and high stress situations. Employers of public safety officers may consider providing alternate tasks for public safety officers recovering from a TBI when possible.
 
Resources
There are many organizations helping people with a TBI and their family during recovery. See Where to Get Help for organizations that can provide support for persons living with a TBI and their families.
CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health develops partnerships, conducts research, and implements intervention strategies for improving workplace safety.
 
 
]]><![CDATA[President's Message]]>Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:14:29 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/presidents-message​Hello Southern Oregon ASSP Members,
One of the things I appreciate most about our chapter is the sense of community we’ve built together. We’re more than just a group of professionals—we’re a network of people who share the same goal: sending everyone home safe at the end of the day. Whether we’re learning from an expert speaker, swapping ideas at a monthly meeting, or teaming up on a project, the value comes from the connections we make and the knowledge we share. I can’t think of a place where I have felt more welcomed and appreciated my participation than Southern Oregon ASSP.
This was highlighted at our most recent monthly meeting, which was extra special as it marked our first gathering at our new location, the Ethos Academy in Phoenix, Oregon. This beautiful space provided the perfect backdrop for a lively and educational session. Our featured topic was ergonomics, but not in the typical “posture and lifting” way you might expect. Instead, our speaker shared creative, relatable strategies for protecting our bodies in the workplace and beyond.
One of the most memorable takeaways was the idea that our bodies are a lot like duct tape and jelly donuts. The “duct tape” analogy reminded us that, like tape, we’re strong and versatile—but if we get twisted or bent the wrong way too often, our effectiveness is reduced. The “jelly donut” example illustrated how our spinal discs can be damaged if we’re not careful with our movements—once the “jelly” leaks out, it’s hard to put it back in! These comparisons were not only fun and easy to remember, but they also underscored the importance of awareness and prevention in everyday movements.
We’re also excited to share that we’re making progress toward livestreaming our monthly meetings. We know that not everyone can make it in person due to work schedules, travel distance, or other commitments. By adding a livestream option, we’ll be able to include more members in real-time learning and discussions, no matter where they are. It’s just another way we’re working to make professional development more accessible for all members of our safety community.
Looking ahead, we have a major event on the horizon: the Southern Oregon Safety and Health Conference happening on October 14, 15, and 16 at the Ashland Hills Hotel. This conference is our flagship event, bringing together safety leaders, industry experts, and professionals from across the region for three days of learning, networking, and professional growth.
Here’s what you can expect this year:
  • Pre-Conference Class (October 14) – Earn your CPR certification in a hands-on, engaging class that will prepare you to respond in an emergency. This certification is a valuable addition to your professional skill set and could one day help save a life. Be sure to reserve your spot in the class through the conference website.
  • All-Day PDC (October 14) – Scott Shumway will lead our professional development course which will focus on “conflict resolution.” This will discuss creating collaborative, solutions-focused dialogue that builds trust, strengthens relationships, and gets results in safety and beyond.
  • Two Full Days of Breakout Sessions (October 15 & 16) – Dive deep into focused classes covering topics like general safety, construction safety, industrial hygiene, and HR topics, leadership, and skills development.
  • Awards & Recognition – Now is the time to showcase the great work happening in your workplace. Submit your safety committee for the Bertak Award or the Best-of-the-Best Award, both of which highlight excellence in safety leadership and innovation. Be sure to check the conference website for details on these and other award categories.  All awards packages are due by August 30.
This year’s conference will offer a balance of technical knowledge, practical skills, and networking opportunities you simply can’t get anywhere else in Southern Oregon. It’s also an incredible opportunity to connect with others who share your passion for safety and learn from their successes and challenges.
I hope you’ll join us for this exciting event. Together, we can continue to raise the bar for safety in Southern Oregon and beyond.
Stay safe, stay engaged, and I’ll see you soon—either at our next monthly meeting or at the conference this October.

Warm regards,
​
Jeffrey Mook
President – Southern Oregon Chapter ASSP

]]><![CDATA[August is Fire Safety Month]]>Wed, 09 Jul 2025 21:11:05 GMThttps://www.soassp.org/news/august-is-fire-safety-monthJames Moulsdale, Communications Chair
​
Fire safety is a key focus in August especially here in southern Oregon where we will be in the peak of our wildfire season. The below information is from www.saif.com, California Department of Public Health Emergency and Evacuation Planning Guide for Employers and Oregon OSHA Oregon Occupational Safety and Health : Wildfires: Addressing worker concerns : Notices : State of Oregon
 
Wildfires are getting bigger, lasting longer, and happening more often in Oregon and across the western United States. In addition to the immediate harm from the fire itself, hazardous smoke travels well beyond the fire lines, putting people and businesses at risk.
Employees who work outdoors, have respiratory conditions or cardiovascular disease, smoke, or are pregnant have a higher risk of health impacts.
 
Follow these tips to be better prepared.
 
Before wildfire season:
  • Include wildfire smoke events in your emergency response and business continuity plans. Find resources to create your plan.
  • Communicate with employees about the potential effects of wildfire smoke and how your business is preparing.
  • Designate essential personnel and duties.
  • Plan for how to get employees to safer locations, or when to release them before situations worsen.
  • Set aside adequate supplies of water, food, and personal protective equipment. Consider providing filtering facepiece respirators, such as  such as N-95 or N-100, for voluntary short-term use. Do not rely on paper or dust masks.
 
During a wildfire event:
  • Monitor fire and smoke risk in your area. One resource is DEQ’s Air Quality Index.
  • Keep indoor air as clean as possible. Shut down outside air intakes and allow air-conditioned buildings to operate on recirculated air. Change filters on HVAC units. Keep windows and doors closed. Reduce or eliminate other sources of indoor air pollutants, such as smoking or cooking.
  • Relocate or reassign outdoor work activities out of the smoke zone.
  • Cease work when air quality and/or visibility presents health and safety hazards.
 
In the unlikely event you must evacuate the workplace:

  • Be familiar with the work site's emergency evacuation plan
  • Know the pathway to at least two alternative exits from every room/area at the workplace
  • Recognize the sound/signaling method of the fire/evacuation alarms
  • Know who to contact in an emergency and how to contact them
  • Know how many desks or cubicles are between your workstation and two of the nearest exits so you can escape in the dark if necessary
  • Know where the fire/evacuation alarms are located and how to use them
  • Report damaged or malfunction safety systems and back-up systems
 
Indoor air quality concerns
  • Employers and workers who are concerned about indoor air quality during wildfire season should check a building’s ventilation system to make sure it has received routine maintenance, such as filter changes
  • Workers who are experiencing problems breathing indoors need a way to report their concerns to management so those concerns may be addressed. A safety committee serves such a purpose. Oregon OSHA maintains standards for safety committees and safety meetings.
  • Oregon OSHA offers consultation services, technical expertise, and other resources to employers who may need help in light of the potential workplace hazards brought on by wildfire season. Oregon OSHA encourages employers to take advantage of our no-cost, confidential consultation services, as well as our brochures and pamphlets, and video library.
  • If employees are worried or believe their concerns have not been addressed, they may file a complaint with Oregon OSHA, which will evaluate it. Complaints may be filed online or by calling the nearest field office.
 

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