Those who work in the oil and gas industry have long been aware of the risk of terrorist attack. And heightening that awareness are recent reports of a new al Qaeda threat against countries that provide oil to the United States, such as Canada and Mexico. Of course, oil and gas industry sites are not the only workplaces that face the risk of terrorist attack. Power plants, large governmental agencies and places that make or use nuclear, biological or chemical materials are also considered a potential target, as are waste treatment facilities, key bridges and tunnels, well-known buildings and national landmarks.

No matter what your workplace, prudent safety leaders prepare their workers for all possible emergencies, including terrorist attacks. Here are some pointers to share with your workers.

Explaining the Mindset

Terrorism is politically motivated, pre-planned violence, carried out by a group trying to influence a larger audience to a political or religious cause. Attacks are designed to generate maximum attention, disrupt security and communication systems, destroy property and kill or injure as many civilians as possible.

Terrorists employ a variety of weapons and tactics, including gunfire, arson, hijacking, kidnapping and bombs. Biological and chemical attacks are also possible. Biological terrorism uses toxins, bacteria or viruses to make people and livestock sick, and to damage crops. Chemical terrorism uses poisonous substances that may cause serious injury or death.

5 Ways to Be Alert to the Threat

Victims of terrorist attacks are often at or on their way to work. So one of the few things workers can do to prepare for an attack is to be cautious and alert. Encourage your workers to adopt these 5 wise habits to keep them safe in the event of an attack:

1. When in an area that could be targeted, be aware of your surroundings. Notice heavy objects that could topple in an explosion, and mentally note a spot where you would be safe if large windows shattered.
2. Plan ahead in case you need to leave the building quickly. Locate emergency exits and stairways. Remember: Don't use elevators in an emergency.
3. While traveling, watch for unusual behavior. Don't accept packages from strangers and never leave your luggage unattended.
4. If you work in a multi-level building, know where fire extinguishers are located and ensure they are in working order. Know where emergency supplies are stored. Ideally, each floor should have a first aid kit, flashlights, battery-operated radio, extra batteries, fluorescent tape for roping off areas and hardhats.
5. Learn first aid.

Bomb Threats

Tell your workers that if they receive a bomb threat at work they should:

• Keep the caller on the phone and get as much information as possible.
• Try to record everything.
• Call police and management, and then get out.
• Move away from windows as the building is evacuated and avoid blocking emergency officials' paths.

Conclusion

Your workers play a valuable role in your company's emergency-preparedness plan. Being prepared for even an unlikely threat is an important part of that plan.

PRODUCT RECALL

HoMedics Heating Pads

By Catherine Jones

The US Food and Drug Administration have announced a voluntary recall of 292,108 heating pads produced by HoMedics, Inc.

Some of the recalled heating pads may have a loose connection, resulting in short circuiting and excessive heat. The company has received reports of minor or first degree burns, as well as property damage, related to the use of the heating pads.

Produced in 2001, the heating pads were shipped to retailers, such as department stores, discounts and drug stores (including Walgreens) across the United States between 2001 and 2002.

The recalled products are Model 802857 (Walgreens by HoMedics) Standard Size Moist/Dry Heating Pad and these HoMedics Thera-P Models:

• HP-100 Standard Size Dry Heating Pad
• HP-150 Standard Size Moist/Dry Heating Pad
• HP-200 Standard Size Moist/Dry Heating Pad with Auto Shut-off
• HP-300 King Size Moist/Dry Heating Pad
• HP-500 King Size Moist/Dry Heating Pad with Auto Shut-off

Only products containing a four-digit code ending in "01" are involved in this voluntary recall.

If you have a recalled heating pad, discontinue use immediately and return it to the retailer for a full refund. For more information, please call the company at 1.800.466.3342. The FDA recall can be found here.

Story Tools:  Email This Post  Print This Post Top