Wilmes, LLC

New Cyber Safety Video is here

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:41:56 +0000

Our latest video addresses cyber safety and security issues your students and children may face on a daily basis. We provide you with important safety tips to help keep kids safe as they learn and interact in cyber space. Watch the Sample Clip Cyber Safety for Parents and Teachers from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

What happend – questions to ask when you activate your EOC.

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 19 May 2013 17:00:20 +0000

Emergencies can cause you to become discombobulated resulting in cloudy thinking and poor decision making. Good decision making is largely a function of having great information to guide you to an answer. The only way to get great information is to ask great questions. When an emergency strikes, being prepared means having a list of ...

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New Heat Illness Video is here

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 18 May 2013 04:41:19 +0000

We just launched our heat illness video for 2013. You can view a sample clip below. Heat Illness for School Employees from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

California Teachers Want To Be Armed

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:48:51 +0000

The California Endowment released this video today in response to the NRA’s call to arm teachers. These teachers from LAUSD think differently. Leave us a comment below and let us know what you think.

When should you shut down a playground?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 08 May 2013 13:33:03 +0000

Being a CPSI for 12 years now, I get asked a lot how to decide to shut down a playground based on the hazards that I find during an inspection. My answer typically involves a reference to the book “Blink”, but that never seems to satisfy the inquirer. So, I am going to try to ...

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Is your main office inviting shooters on campus?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 08 May 2013 01:27:44 +0000

In the mist of all these shootings and bombings, when I walk into a school I am constantly thinking about how these terrorists would get access to the school. And I am always surprised when the school site invites them in. Over the years, I have helped several security consulting firms master CPTED principles and ...

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Nominate your teacher for May 6 – 10 is National Teacher Appreciation Week

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 05 May 2013 16:37:07 +0000

What would the world do without teachers? They do the toughest job everyday – preparing our youth to take on the ever-changing world. May 6 – 10 is National Teacher Appreciation Week and to celebrate we giving 10 teachers a little something to honor their hard work. But before we pick the 10 teachers, we ...

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The difference between “local” and “mechanical” could save your life

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:08:34 +0000

Every year, thousands of employees suffer respiratory irritations, disease and sometimes death due to their lack of understanding regarding ventilation types. And one of the biggest issues is knowing that mechanical ventilation is local exhaust, but local exhaust is not mechanical ventilation. It’s like understanding that a tomato is a fruit, but you never put ...

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Congratulations to Andy Johnson of Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 02:37:07 +0000

We would like to congratulate today’s winner of National Playground Safety Week. Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools was the lucky winner of the Playground Maintenance and Playground Supervision videos. To enter to win, just leave us a comment here

An excerpt from our new work comp book

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 02:16:08 +0000

We will be releasing a new book on worker’s compensation in the next few months, but before we do, we wanted to give you a little taste of what’s in it. While we haven’t decided what the title will be, the premise of the book is to provide tips to help you reduce your work ...

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Another reason to use WeTip

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:16:16 +0000

It never ceases to amaze me how stingy people are with money and how quick they are to make promises that they can’t keep. On Thursday, April 25th, 2013 the Daily Breeze reported on the reward status of the Christopher Dorner case. If you don’t recall who Christopher Dorner was, let me remind you of ...

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Congratulations to John Shook of Little Lake City School District

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 03:43:30 +0000

We would like to congratulate today’s winner of National Playground Safety Week. Little Lake City School District was the lucky winner of the Playground Maintenance and Playground Supervision videos. To enter to win, just leave us a comment here

Congratulations to Lupe Ruiz of Luther Burbank School District

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 03:44:46 +0000

We would like to congratulate today’s winner of National Playground Safety Week. Luther Burbank School District was today’s lucky winner of the Playground Maintenance and Playground Supervision videos. To enter to win, just leave us a comment here

April 21st Marks National Playground Safety Week

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:17:54 +0000

April 21st marks the start of National Playground Safety Week and keeping kids safe is the name of the game. That’s why we are doing our part to help out. Here’s how…. Did you know that 84% of injuries are due to a lack of maintenance and a lack of supervision? That’s right – easily ...

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WeTip gives Steve Wilmes The Service Award

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 00:24:33 +0000

On April 19, 2013 at the 40th Annual WeTip conference, Steve Wilmes was awarded The Service Award for outstanding service to we tip. This past year Steve redesigned the WeTip website adding much needed functionality to the website. Steve said “It’s a pleasure to help an organization like WeTip. Their contribution to the United States ...

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Better late than never – still holds true with Cal-OSHA

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:32:12 +0000

One of the most common questions we get asked when it comes to reporting injuries is – “we missed the 8 hour window, should we still report this injury to OSHA?” And it is always a tough one to answer. Legally, we would NEVER advise you not to report an injury to OSHA. But when ...

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An excerpt from our new work comp book – Get well cards

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 04:59:32 +0000

When we decided that it was time to publish a book on workers compensation, we didn’t want to fill the pages with a bunch of rhetoric from the collective minds of our risk engineers. We wanted to get real answers from real people, so we did what any smart author would do – go to ...

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Two must-have words when issuing rewards

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:16:13 +0000

Money doesn’t grow on trees, so when it comes to issuing rewards, there are two must-have words that should preceed the reward amount. They are “Up To”. All too often crime reporting hotlines offer a standard $5,000 reward. The problem is that 20 people call in tips and now you have to payout $100,000 when ...

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We launched 4 new playground instructional videos

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 05:34:01 +0000

Today, we launched four new playground instructional videos to help schools staff conduct inspections at their sites. The videos teach staff members how to use the various inspection tools correctly. We hope this will eliminate some of the misuses of the tools thereby correctly identifying hazards and keeping kids safe. The videos cover: the head ...

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How to complete the worker’s compensation DWC-1 Form

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:25:48 +0000

How to complete the work comp DWC-1 from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

How to complete the worker’s compensation Form 5020

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:52:24 +0000

How to complete the work comp 5020 from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

How to Read Cal-OSHA’s Document Request Form

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 03:58:17 +0000

How to Read CalOSHA Document Request Form from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

Is Cal-OSHA guilty of entrapment?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 03:56:17 +0000

In the article about free gifts from insurance companies, we explored how you need to be really careful about what “free” safety plans you implement at your organization. But the last place that you would think you would get a stinker of a plan would be the governmental body that gives it to you. Several ...

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Free gift from insurance company costs school $5,000

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 01:22:52 +0000

The old adage “buyer beware” never rang more true than it did again today as a client described a mess they were in. When it comes to free safety plans from your insurance company, it pays to be “deathly afraid” and aware of what you are getting. All too often IIPP’s are downloaded from ...

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The police are going to stop helping schools with active shooters.

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:16:38 +0000

Ever since the deadly attacks at Columbine, schools have focused their emergency preparedness attention to active shooters. Those events changed the way we deal with active shooters – read how. With the Sandy Hook incident, just about every school in the United States is gearing up and training their staff and students in the active ...

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How to Read a Certificate of Insurance

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:00:54 +0000

Ever wanted to know how to read a certificate of insurance? Watch this short video on how to read the most popular certificate of insurance form – the Acord 25. How to Read an Acord 25 Certificate of Insurance Form from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

How to Read a Safety Data Sheet

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:52:44 +0000

With the new GHS system coming into play, being able to read a new Safety Data Sheet is vitally important. Watch this short video on how to read a new SDS. How to Read a Safety Data Sheet from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

How to Use WeTip’s New Website’s Crime Reporting Feature

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 19:02:34 +0000

WeTip is rolling out a new website. Here’s one of the coolest features – an online “anonymous” crime reporting tip form. How to Anonymously Report Crime using WeTip from Steve Wilmes on Vimeo.

Combat Ergonomics – Serious Tactics For Avoiding Repetitive Injuries

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 15:14:48 +0000

What do binoculars and ergonomics have in common – more than you think. Field and Stream wrote a great piece on using binoculars safely and it got me thinking about combat ergonomics in the work environment. Here’s a few strategies for avoiding those painful injuries in the concrete jungle: Clear Your Route I literally have ...

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99 Ways to Use WeTip in Your School

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:25:01 +0000

If you really want to stop crime, fraud, harassment and other unethical behaviors in your organization, then having an anonymous crime reporting hotline is the way to go. For those of you who don’t know, I have been a member of WeTip’s Advisory Board for quite a few years now. People are always asking me ...

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3 tips to screw safety meetings as usual

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 06:24:29 +0000

Let’s face it – safety meetings are typically boring and they rarely add anything of value that you didn’t already know. Yes, incidents are up. Training is down. Someone reported a trip hazard that really wasn’t a trip hazard. Summer is coming and heat illness will be an issue. On and on it goes. So ...

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The one sentence that can make or break your safety and risk management programs.

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:16:48 +0000

Ever wonder why your safety and risk management policies don’t get the results you were looking for? Why your IIPP just sits on a shelf? Why your emergency plan doesn’t seem to work when you test it? The answer is surprisingly simple and it can usually be corrected in one sentence. It’s Not The Best ...

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Conducting threat assessments by the book may be a violation of students civil rights.

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 15:25:21 +0000

Events like Sandy Hook, Virginia Tech, and Columbine have educators thinking about how to stop these events from occurring in the future. One such solution that should be incorporated into every school district’s emergency plan is Threat Assessments. But doing it by the book may just be a violation of students civil rights. Assess Everything ...

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How to make great safety videos in-house.

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:52:10 +0000

As you may be aware, we have created some great safety videos over the last year. You may be surprised to learn that making great safety videos is not as difficult as it looks nor is it very expensive. We did most of ours with just one person and when we were really lucky, we ...

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This is one orange you shouldn’t have on your school campus.

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:16:16 +0000

When it comes to oranges, visions of sweet tasting summer fruit come to mind. And for most of us that is all we should think about. But, not all oranges are created equally and some are poisonous to small children. Poisonous Plants & Animals on School Campuses The Osage Orange trees are great for creating ...

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This letter won’t cost you $25,000 any longer. The biggest news in ADA legislation.

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 03 Feb 2013 18:19:50 +0000

For the past several years, select attorneys have made it rich on the backs of the public and specifically children trying to earn their constitutional right to an education. Small restaurant owners were not immune from these extortion tactics either. The ADA Demand Letter This letter requesting money for ADA violations was known as a ...

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February is American Heart Month

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 08:15:11 +0000

It’s American Heart Month February is American Heart Month and we are celebrating by giving you our free A.E.D. Checklist. Now is a great time to train staff and students on a variety of issues affecting the heart. It’s also a great time to make sure that all of your equipment is working properly. Our ...

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The one-page document that can cost or save you millions – do you know what it is?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 15:09:16 +0000

In every organization there exists a one-page document that holds unimaginable power. It holds the power to grow amazing results or unleash total destruction upon the organization. The Mayan civilization understood that nothing is good and nothing is evil. They also understood that with ultimate power came ultimate responsibility and learning how to harness that ...

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How to steal a laptop from school.

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 16:57:16 +0000

Want to know how to prevent a laptop thefts in schools? Put them in a real safe, like the ones American Security sells. Too Many Laptop Thefts From Schools Over the years, I have taken several reports of laptop thefts from school classrooms. And one of the first questions I always ask the risk manager ...

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Guaranteed you don’t have this in your emergency plan.

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:44:53 +0000

I bet your thinking right now “we covered every emergency scenario in our school’s SEMS/NIMS emergency plans – there’s no way we missed something.” And that’s probably what many schools think when they completed their DMA 2000 plans, but after reviewing more plans than I care to admit, I have never seen a plan address ...

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Is your school garden poisoning students?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 15:05:11 +0000

Be Green Be Sustainable With the push to be green and sustainable, many schools are turning to gardening to teach valuable skills to students. Growing giant tomatoes means that you have to pull in some reinforcements. Good sunlight, water, fertilizers and the dreaded pesticides. But something much more dangerous hides in the school garden soil. Something that ...

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Will your staff’s vacation plans cost you millions in a wrongful term case?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 15:25:45 +0000

Have you noticed that a lot more of your staff are planning vacations to Colorado and Washington this year? Well, don’t be surprised. On November 6th, 2012, these two states became very attractive vacation destinations for one simple reason - there’s a big cloud forming over these two states and it smells strangely like marijuana. ...

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Are deadbolts too dangerous for schools? We think so.

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 08:05:24 +0000

Let’s face it, the events at Sandy Hook are tragic at best and a reminder that the human spirit can unleash horrific brutality among its own kind. In light of this event many of our schools are asking what to do to safeguard its students. The first thing that comes to their mind is something ...

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Safety Time – Ladder safety – one last free one

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:00:15 +0000

Download our free episode of Safety Time – Ladder Safety. The DVD is finished and will release next week.

A great reminder about smoking

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 17:18:22 +0000

Safety Time – Common Safety Errors – One more free one.

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:00:39 +0000

Robin and I are really close to finishing up the series. We are almost ready to release the DVD. Don’t forget to tell us what you think of our videos.

Safety Time – Here’s another free download – Concrete Safety training

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:42:50 +0000

We are really excited about our new series Safety Time © and we want you to have another free episode – concrete safety training. We will be launching the DVD series soon and you will have a chance to get all the episodes. Make sure you get the free one’s today.

Why the iPad is not for schools.

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 18:28:01 +0000

Sure everybody loves the iPad and now the mini, even if they don’t know it yet. Just put your hands on one for a week and your life is magically transformed. The apps are great, the device knows where you are at all times, the amount of information at your fingertips is amazing and it ...

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Is the lunch line violating student privacy rights?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 14:07:41 +0000

Pinellas County Schools was the first in the Country to implement palm scanners as part of a payment system for its schools lunches. The schools are able to take payment when a child places their hand on the scanner. The inventor, Fujitsu, says that it is 99% accurate – just like a fingerprint. And ...

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Are inflatables too dangerous?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:56:38 +0000

Injuries on inflatable bouncers has increased 15 fold from 1995 to 2010 according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics. To read the abstract or get the full article, click http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/130/6/1076.abstract Inflatables have always been a source of injuries, but the number of injuries has risen from 702 a year to more than 11,000. Those ...

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Is your suspicion of child abuse reasonable?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:19:21 +0000

Last month I attended the retirement party for Steve Cooley, the former District Attorney of Los Angeles, (don’t ask it’s a long story how I got there) where I stumbled upon the topic of reasonable suspicion with one of the guests at my table. The guest was a professor at one of the prestigious southern California ...

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Is your Christmas Tree safe for a school?

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 01:48:18 +0000

It’s that time of year again, when we start decorating for the big holidays. And the number one decoration is a Christmas Tree. Even schools get in on the action. But is your Christmas tree safe for a school? In California, the State Fire Marshall governs Christmas Trees placed in public buildings under Title 19, ...

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Is hand sanitizer destroying students’ muscles?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 07:17:22 +0000

When H1N1 hit the scene, many people rushed to the store to buy large quantities of hand sanitizer. Some districts spent thousands of dollars to provide all students with personal hand sanitizer packets. Companies rushed to outfit schools with bulk dispensers at every turn. What happened next was amazing. Schools shocked to find out that ...

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The 6 Super Powers of a Great Risk Manager

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 07:06:42 +0000

Risk Managers are tasked with protecting organizations from every imaginable risk. Some do this with ease and have huge fans and followings. So, what makes these risk managers great risk managers? Some will tell you that they just have better skills than most people and they put them to good use. While skills certainly play a ...

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Influenza Week is Here – December 5th – 12th

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:01:47 +0000

December 5th marks the start of the National Influenza Week. It’s a time to educate students and staff about the flu. It’s also a perfect time to remind them to get a flu shot and help prevent the spread of the flu. Here are some great resources: Shoo The Flu http://shootheflu.org Flu.gov http://www.flu.gov/

Filmed another 33 safety time episodes – watch the funny outtake

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 04:44:05 +0000

Robin and I filmed more than 30 Safety Time © episodes this past week. We tried really hard to make these fun and informative at the same time. Does Robin know what Tokyo Drift is?

“Safety Time” 5-minute toolbox talks are almost finished – get another free download

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 07:01:27 +0000

We are working on a series of 5-minute talks to assist you with your toolbox/tailgate safety meetings and we are almost finished. We thought you might enjoy getting a free taste of our latest creation. You can watch it here or download it to use at your site. Stay tuned for more episodes.

Pre-Release “Safety Time” 5-minute toolbox talks – another free download

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 06:58:55 +0000

We are working on a series of 5-minute talks to assist you with your toolbox/tailgate safety meetings and we are making great progress. We just filmed another 12 videos. We thought you might enjoy getting a free taste of our latest creation. You can watch it here or download it to use at your ...

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Pre-Release “Safety Time” 5-minute toolbox talks – free download

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 06:57:11 +0000

We are working on a series of 5-minute talks to assist you with your toolbox/tailgate safety meetings. We thought you might enjoy getting a free taste of our latest creation. You can watch it here or download it to use at your site. Stay tuned for more episodes.

Podcast – Why did you become a safety/risk manager?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 04:30:21 +0000

There comes a point in everyone of our careers that we ask ourselves “why did I pick this career?” In this episode, we sit down with 6 year-old Madison to explore the reasons we may have chosen to be a safety manager. Madison signed up to be a safety at her elementary school and her ...

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Student Records Must be Transfered in 10 Days

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 10 Nov 2012 21:47:29 +0000

People love to procrastinate and especially when there’s no money to do something in the first place. Over the last 5 years are so, school districts have been facing enormous budget cuts and clerical staff are no exception. Unfortunately customer service is one of the first things to go and if you are no longer ...

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25% Rate Hike on National Flood Insurance Program

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:17:52 +0000

On July 6, 2012, the President signed into law H.R. 4348 which allows rates to increase by 25% until actuarial rates are achieved. This is done by removing the subsidy rates. Okay, so what’s the big deal? The big deal is that in addition to paying more, this also increases the penalties for non-compliance. Meaning ...

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Do I need to follow IPM – Healthy Schools Act of 2000 for Head Lice treatments?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 23:20:16 +0000

This is another one of those “it depends” answers. What does it depend upon? The method of treatment. There are many pesticides that can be used to treat lice in a school environment, some are natural and therefore are exempt from reporting requirements under the Healthy Schools Act of 2000. To determine whether your particular ...

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Can we use ozone to sanitize our utensils?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 22:00:02 +0000

Yes, in California you may now sanitize food utensils with a solution of ozone. It wasn’t until September 27, 2012 that AB 1427 was Chaptered authorizing the use of ozone. AB 1427 added (b)(4) to California’s Health & Safety Code Section 114099.6. The big push here was that ozone depletes quickly and cannot be shipped ...

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A Lesson from the USC Halloween Shooting

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:19:49 +0000

On October 31st, 2012, four people were shot at an on-campus party at the prestigious USC campus. Two men were waiting in line to enter a party when an argument broke out and one of the men pulled a weapon and open fired. Schools and colleges in California have been preparing for lockdowns and campus ...

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So you want to have a haunted house.

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 18:03:46 +0000

Halloween is almost here and it’s time to have a little fun scaring our family, friends and neighbors. What’s the best way to frighten everyone and get their blood pressure going – a haunted house. So, grab your hammer, nail gun and zombie props- it’s time to get to work. Not so fast master of ...

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Is the Zombie Apocalypse part of your emergency plan?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 17:24:08 +0000

Swine flu, bird flu, SARS and now the zombie apocalypse? Are you ready? Did you update your emergency plan? Let me make something clear here. We really don’t think a zombie apocalypse is going to occur – at least not like in the movies, but that’s not what companies would have you believe. Just stop ...

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What makes active shooters different?

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:27:18 +0000

There is one huge difference when it comes to active shooters. They are not hostage takers. Let me say that again. They are not hostage takers. They don’t want hostages, they have no plan for hostages and they are prepared to deal with consequences of not having hostages. What does that mean for your organization? ...

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An interview with Jim Thyden the VP of PARMA

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 14:49:18 +0000

Today on the Risk Control Show, we sit down with Jim Thyden the VP of the Public Agency Risk Manager’s Association (PARMA). Jim tells us about how he became a leader of one of California’s best professional educational organizations. Jim also shares some of his earlier mistakes and how he got past them. Find out ...

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Do you know the difference between a bullying death and a choking game death?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 04:15:20 +0000

There’s a huge emphasis on bullying in the world of education right now and it deserves every bit of it. While the world focuses on bullying, there is a deadly game being played all over the United States – The Choking Game. The Choking Game is not really a game at all – it’s a ...

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Athletic coaches are now mandated reporters under AB 1435

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 22:27:38 +0000

AB 1435 adds athletic coaches to the list of mandated reporters in California. Deemed the Sandusky bill, it seems odd that it took this long to realize there are a lot of sexual molestation claims related to coaches, walk-on coaches, and athletic departments. The bill’s author states that athletic personnel were not explicitly include in ...

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New crowd control guidelines from POST

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 21:14:44 +0000

As the world economy continues to struggles, protests will become more frequent. We have already seen incidents like the UC Davis pepper spray incident and the CSU protest against student fee hikes. Knowing how to handle these events can minimize your risk and reduce your costs. Video of UC Davis incident P.O.S.T. revised and published ...

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Are you screening new hires for terrorist affiliations, if not you should be.

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 14:55:44 +0000

The new hire process is already cumbersome, expensive and full of potential adverse liabilities. You know that you are supposed to check the legal working status of all new hires, but did you know that you should be checking the U.S. Treasury’s Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (OFAC) list of “specifically designated nationals?” While ...

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5 books you need to read on cyber security

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 05:30:38 +0000

Cyber threats are multiplying by the minute and the chance of them going away is, well, not likely at all. The next best thing you can do is get educated. Here are 5 books worth reading – top universities across the United States are teaching from these books. Applied Cryptography by Bruce Schneier The Basics ...

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Are QR Codes the new security risk

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 07 Oct 2012 22:42:01 +0000

The internet is filled with awesome information. It is also filled with tons of viruses, malware, phising scams, and people trying to skim information when you visit their site. For years we have been warned not to click on links in those offbeat emails we get. A few years ago, QR codes (those little square ...

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Disaster Events Volume 2 – really close to being released

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 05:30:57 +0000

Earlier this week, we told you that we were getting close to finishing our Disaster Events Volume 2. The response from schools has been huge, so are team is in high gear to get it finished. In the mean time, they felt that we should give you another free tabletop exercise to keep your program ...

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Are we required to notify parents and athletes about concussions?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 18:32:56 +0000

Yes, in January of 2012, Assembly Bill 25 added section 49475 to California Education Code. This new section requires that head injury information be provided to the guardian and athlete annually. Both the parent/guardian and the athlete need to sign-off on the information sheet and return it to the school site. 49475. (a) If a ...

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Disaster Events Volume 2 is almost here

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 05:27:39 +0000

Schools loved our Disaster Events Tabletop Exercises Volume 1 Collection and they asked us to develop Volume 2. We have been working on Volume 2 now for a few weeks and should be rolling out the entire set soon. In the mean time, we are giving away one of tabletop exercises just for stopping by ...

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Can we purchase wooden playground structures?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:06:57 +0000

California doesn’t really want you to purchase wooden playground structures using public funds. The reason is rather simple – wooden playground structures have to be treated with a pesticide and/or preservative to ensure that it can withstand the elements. These chemicals can be hazardous to children when they come in contact with the structure. The ...

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Are volunteers the answer to your emergency plan?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:16:31 +0000

Volunteers can provide tremendous amounts of help and countless labor hours, but during an emergency volunteers may be viewed as a burden. Changing your point of view can transform volunteers from a burden to valuable horsepower. How to transform your volunteers One of the biggest reasons we turn away volunteers is due to the issue ...

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When should recovery begin?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 03:24:25 +0000

Recovery may be the last phase in the circle of emergency management, but it certainly doesn’t have to be the last phase to be implemented. When should recovery begin? As soon as possible and sometimes that means 10 minutes after the “big bang” occurs. You don’t have to wait til the emergency or disaster event ...

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Is “Resiliency” the new focus of emergency management?

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 17:17:50 +0000

I am here in Long Beach at the CEMHS co nference listening to a presentation by Dr. Christine Springer of UNLV. Dr. Springer is speaking on the topic of “resiliency” in emergency management. Dr. Springer goes over 13 of some 26 odd definitions of “resiliency” in emergency management found published in various places over the ...

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The New 2012 California Science Safety Handbook is finally here

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 13:15:45 +0000

In 1999, California launched its last update to the Science Safety Handbook. The Handbook was suppose to be updated once every 3 years, but for various reasons the updates never came. For years risk managers in the schools have been begging for an update and finally, now in 2012 the update is here. You ...

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What are the compliance dates for GHS implmentation?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 14:16:15 +0000

There are 4 main dates that you should be concerned with in regard to the Globally Harmonized System of classification of chemicals. The first one comes at the end of next year and is probably the easiest to implement. By December 1, 2013 affected employees should be trained on the updated hazard communication standard and ...

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What’s the difference between a SDS and a MSDS?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:54:46 +0000

There are two basic differences between an SDS and the old-fashion MSDS. The SDS requires 16 elements and they must be in a specified order as they are listed in the table below. An old-fashioned MSDS did not specify the order and it did not require the same set of 16 elements. For a full ...

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Can hazard communication compromise your trade secrets? Not if you do this.

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:42:17 +0000

The Scenario If you have a trade secret, the idea is to protect it. But what if an employee is injured by a trade secret chemical and you must disclose the chemical in order to save your employees life. Of course you are going to disclose the chemical to the medical professionals, but you want ...

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What are the 5 elements of an idependent employee act for purposes of OSHA?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 23:28:43 +0000

There are 5 elements which must be proven under the theory of Independent Employee Act, they are: The employee is experienced in the job. The employer has a well-developed safety program which includes safety training. The training must focus on the employee-in-question’s job. The employer must enforce its safety program. The employer must enforce/discipline employees ...

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When is decorative art a hazard?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 15:57:14 +0000

Art is beautiful and it is meant to be hung on walls. But hanging too much art on school classroom walls and corridors can be a fire hazard. So how much is too much? 10% in the Classroom To determine the amount of decorative art that can be hung in California’s school classrooms we need ...

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Will DTS change the face of bullying tip lines?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 15:35:44 +0000

For more than a decade now, WeTip.com has sat alone in the world of Anonymous tip lines. Sure there are plenty of crime reporting hotlines that claim to be anonymous, but most are simply confidential. And there’s a big difference between confidential and anonymous. Remember confidential means that someone knows who you are as is ...

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The 8 most common CSSP mistakes

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 14:50:08 +0000

It’s that time of year again, when schools in California plan for emergencies and start to update their Comprehensive School Safety Plans. CSSP’s are public documents which means that they must be available for the public to view at any time. What that really means is that the CSSP needs to be carefully crafted to ...

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Security cameras just got affordable

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 05:36:47 +0000

With budgetary problems looming, cuts in staff and criminals looking to steal whatever they can, you want to protect your organization as much as possible. In the old days (just 9 months ago) installing CCTV cameras was huge venture. But not anymore. At the CES show in Vegas, Dropcam introduced their new wifi HD camera ...

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The Big One is Coming – The Great ShakeOut

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 21:23:15 +0000

School is back in session and that only means one thing. It’s time to prepare for the disasters that we will eventually have to face. A great way to do that is to participate in the Great ShakeOut. This year the Great ShakeOut will be held on October 18th at 10:18am. It’s easy to participate ...

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Safety Time with Hugh Sherrod – Safe Driving

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 21:00:53 +0000

Stay on the road with 5 minutes of Safe Driving training The roads are busier than ever now that schools back in session. Keep your staff trained with this 5 minute tool box talk on safe driving. It covers the basics, so you don’t have to. Enjoy our free video and look for more coming ...

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Safety Time with Hugh Sherrod – Heat Illness

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 20:29:53 +0000

Stay Cool with 5 Minutes of Heat Illness Training Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean that the occasional heat wave doesn’t strike. Keep your staff trained with this 5 minute tool box talk on heat illness. It covers the basics, so you don’t have to. Enjoy our free video and look ...

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Dr. Diana Smith of Tucker County Schools is Awarded the End-of-Summer Risk Management Grant

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 23:24:29 +0000

We would like to congratulate Dr. Diana Smith on receiving the End of Summer Risk Management Grant. Wilmes, LLC Risk Control Services awarded $250 to Tucker County Schools in West Virginia to assist the District in building it’s anti-bullying campaign. “We were very pleased to receive Dr. Smith’s grant application for an anti-bullying program. Bullying ...

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Do I need to post my OSHA Summary?

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 17:45:42 +0000

The Scenario of the Missing OSHA Summary So, you forgot to report a serious injury and now Cal-OSHA is crawling around your facility. Let’s face it, nobody wants to injure employees or fellow co-workers. Organizations should provide a safe working environment. That being said, it is much better to use funds to pay to abate ...

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Will social media be a protected activity?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 23:38:34 +0000

To Protect or Not To Protect Social Media has exploded over the last 5 years and it is certainly here to stay. Social media offers a great venue to voice your opinions, share photos, and connect with friends and co-workers. On the flip-side, protection from sexual harassment, discrimination and other protected activities are increasing. The ...

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Leadership Principles with Terrie Norris, former President of ASSE

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 14:49:39 +0000

Meet Terrie Norris In this episode of The Risk Control Show we are gong to peak behind the curtain and find out what it takes to be a world leader in safety and health. Terrie, the former President of ASSE, explains what it was like to lead a world-wide organization and gives great advice to ...

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Financial Disaster Recovery from FEMA with Jerry Quinn

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 14:49:13 +0000

Recovering from a major disaster event is difficult enough. Finding out that you don’t have the documentation to recover funds from FEMA doubles the pain. Join us in this episode of The Risk Control Show as we sit down with the Disaster Badger, Mr. Jerry Quinn of Gerard J. Quinn & Associates and peak behind ...

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Are you getting the most from your investigation firm?

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 14:49:14 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Jason Schwerin the CEO of Atlas Claims Investigations which has be lauded as the fastest growing investigation company in California. Jason has created a unique approach to investigations and it’s a surprisingly simple one – focus on data. Jason’s commitment to collecting solid data is changing the ...

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Are you making your wellness program unhealthy?

Wilmes, LLC — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 21:25:23 +0000

In this episode of The Risk Control Show we will focus on wellness and fitness programs with the 27-year veteran Judi Ulrey. Judi is the owner of Fitness Consulting, Inc. a firm specializing in wellness programs for schools and organizations alike. Judi has published 100′s of articles, produced 100′s of videos and consulted with countless ...

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How to Protect Your School or Small Business Against Cyber Attacks

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 23:04:46 +0000

Protect your School or Small Business Ever wonder why criminals want to attack your computer network systems and what they do once they get the information? In this podcast, we will speak with Arlid Jensen, President and CEO of Secos Security, Inc. about cyber security. Arlid will provide you with excellent tips to protect yourself ...

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Join us October 10th at CalPRIMA/PARMA

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 22:51:38 +0000

We have been asked to speak at the joint conference of CalPRIMA/PARMA on October 10th. Please join Zachary Gifford and Steven Wilmes as they present on the topic of Database Development & the Management of Risk. For more information, please visit the CalPRIMA.

Wilmes, LLC is now part of the SchoolRisk Bloggers Alliance

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 17:40:24 +0000

We are proud to announce that we are now part of the SchoolRisk Bloggers Alliance, which is hosted by the Public School Risk Institute. Join us as we discuss the issues facing schools today. .

Do we have to care for animals on school campuses?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 05:15:29 +0000

Yes, you must care for animals that are classroom pets. The big problem here is not the day-to-day maintenance of the animal while school is in session, but those times when everyone is on break. When that happens we tend to run into problems with the animal care: feeding, warmth and our own difficulties driving ...

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ASTM F1487 changes playground requirements

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:23:24 +0000

New ASTM F 1487-11 Standard ASTM Standard F1487-11 is here and if you haven’t yet read it, you should. There are multiple changes in this standard from the previous versions and many will affect your playgrounds. So, your probably saying to yourself, but wait just a minute there – we use the CPSC Handbook 325 ...

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DMA 2000 – Is It Worth It

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 15:11:49 +0000

Today on the Risk Control Show, we speak with Robin Thorne of the Emergency Planning Consulting Group on the topic of DMA 2000 plans. We try to get to the bottom of whether spending 100k is worth it. Listen in to find out what we think.

The Risk Control Show with Steve Wilmes is now on Blubrry

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 18:22:56 +0000

We’ve got great news – our podcast series “The Risk Control Show with Steve Wilmes” is now available on Blubrry.com The success of the show is outstanding and we are so pleased that we are now available in many venues. We hope that you will join us! You can find the show at www.blubrry.com/wilmes

Defending OSHA Citations and Other Safety Matters with Jeff Malek

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:00:19 +0000

Ever wonder how you would handle an OSHA visit or worse yet and OSHA citation? Go behind the scenes with The Risk Control Show and learn first hand how one of the Nations leading OSHA defense attorneys handles OSHA visits, citations and even writing documents such as the IIPP. Get ready to answer questions such ...

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Food Trucks Getting Closer – AB1678 from 1500 to 500 feet

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 05:48:47 +0000

The food truck craze is on and it might be here to stay. Currently in Los Angeles County, mobile food selling is allowed with in a 100 foot radius around a school campus. While this isn’t necessarily right on top of the school it is certainly within walking distance for students during lunch. The big ...

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Emergency Preparedness Leadership – An Interview with Robin Thorne

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:22 +0000

In a follow up to our conversation with Dr. Craig Zachlod, we spoke with the CEO of Emergency Planning Consulting Group on the topic of leadership in emergency management. As you may imagine, communication and flexibility are the driving forces behind success in emergency management. Listen in as Robin Thorne discusses emergency management leadership.

Ladder Safety – Cal-OSHA Consolidates

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 15:00:21 +0000

Big Steps in Ladder Safety We’ve been asking Cal-OSHA to simplify Title 8 regulations for years and our wish has finally come true. Regulations regarding the use of portable ladders, whether in construction (CSO) or general industry (GISO) has been consolidated into one easy-to-read Section – Section 3276 of Title 8. While there are still ...

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How can I find what laws are being changed in California?

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 16 Jun 2012 19:24:10 +0000

Keeping up with the changes in laws is a daily activity and a stressful one. The OAL of California publishes notices weekly. To receive them by mail will cost you roughly $250, but you can get them online for free. http://www.oal.ca.gov/California_Regulatory_Notice_Online.htm

Emergency Management Leadership – An Interview with Dr. Craig Zachlod

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 16:26:28 +0000

Much has been written on the topic of success, but do the principles of leadership apply to emergency events when everyone is under such extreme pressures? Disasters and emergency events may be the ultimate testing grounds for your leadership skills. Do you have what it takes to be an effective leader? You might be surprised ...

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We Tortured Kneegard Pants – Watch the Video

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 17:40:20 +0000

We love our Kneegard pants, but we wanted to see what they could really stand up to. So, we put them through a series of tests, including: towing a truck and shooting a framing nail into someone’s knee. You won’t believe what these pants can stand up to. Watch the podcast here.

AB519 Should educators restrain kids?

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 16:39:34 +0000

AB 519 suggests that educators should be able to restrain students in public schools through the use of physical and mechanical methods as well as place them in seclusion rooms. The issue with this bill at this point in time is that their is absolutely no training requirements for educators who will be using these ...

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Interview with Irving Jacob – Safety Trainer

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 07:47:15 +0000

On today’s podcast, we interview Irving Jacob of Jacob & Associates to discuss IIPP’s, heat illness and safe lifting practices. Tune in as we explore some of the common questions about these programs. Watch the podcast here.

Please welcome Irving Jacob to TrainMyCrew

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:36:25 +0000

I am excited because today we are filming 3 training sessions with Irving Jacob of Jacob & Associates. Irving is a great safety trainer focusing in heavily on OSHA required training topics. Tomorrow will be Irving’s first time in front of the camera for TrainMyCrew. We will be covering heat stress, IIPP and Safe Lifting ...

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AB 2114 Anti-entrapment devices for public swimming pools

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 02:31:25 +0000

AB 2114 of 2012 is seeking to require some additional anti-entrapment devices on your public swimming pool’s suction outlets. It wants to require these on outlets that are less than 12 inches also. Listen in on the podcast. 1)Purpose . The intent of this legislation is to update current swimming pool safety standards to include ...

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Can our school be used for religious purposes?

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 28 May 2012 18:06:24 +0000

Many people understand that there is a separation of church and State, however what most people don’t understand is that this separation has certain exceptions. If you are trying to manage risk in your school and you are asked if you can allow rental of your facilities to a church to hold services, you may ...

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AB1451 adds concussion signs and symptoms to coachs’ training

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 26 May 2012 14:30:04 +0000

There has been a lot of talk about concussions recently and the problem is a big one, however most of the remedies have used simple risk transfer techniques. AB 1451 is seeking to add a section of training to the existing coach’s training that is already being regulated and administered. Again, there is no one ...

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AB 2565 Requires Anti-Intimidation and Anti-Bullying School Posters

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 26 May 2012 00:39:54 +0000

The issue of bullying has not gone away and it is likely that it never will. AB 2565 is seeking to place a requirement on schools to encourage clubs and other student organizations to create and display posters warning other students about the dangers of bullying and other behavior that could result in law enforcement ...

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The Pitfalls of Giving Notice

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 23 May 2012 05:20:26 +0000

Due Diligence Shopping for the best deal is human nature – whether it is for that extra discount on your vacation rental or a big sale on the new pair of shoes, but once you find a good deal and fall in love with the brand, you forget about looking for future deals. The same ...

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(UN)Healthy Schools Act of 2012, SB394 promises to make schools full of pests

Wilmes, LLC — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:40:16 +0000

Here’s a bill that really needs no introduction. It’s the Health Schools Act of 2012 is a revision of the 12 year old law from 2000. Let’s make sure that we start off on the same page here, I believe in the HSA of 2000 and for the most part in the update being brought ...

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Use tape, not pushpins says AB1820

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 15 May 2012 16:13:23 +0000

AB1820 is seeking to outlaw choking hazards in day care facilities by specifically attacking the use of pushpins. While the bill was originally introduced into session to only prohibit the use of pushpins in day care facilities, the author has now opened up the bill to all chocking hazards. The bill seeks to prohibit choking ...

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Has advertising gone too far? SB1295 doesn’t think so.

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:33:24 +0000

Two bills are in the Senate which aim to put commercial advertising on school buses in California. SB1295 and SB1518 want to put a little extra cash back in school district’s pockets with additional sources of revenues. With 7 States already allowing commercial advertising on school buses, California certainly won’t lead the charge, but its ...

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California AB1726 Public Swimming Pool Operators

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:14:40 +0000

Just get out of the pool? Are your eyes burning? Well that may be due to poor chemical management, something AB 1726 is looking to cure. California AB 1726 is seeking to place hefty requirements on public pool owners, including hiring employees, 14 hours of training and much more. At this stage of the game, ...

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What is the Civic Center Act?

Director of Loss Control — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 17:52:51 +0000

The Civic Center Act is codified in California Education Code 38130. The spirit of the law was to ensure that structures and facilities built with public dollars were allowed to benefit the public for other purposes beyond just schooling. If you have heard of facility use agreements, this piece of Code is the basis for ...

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Playground Grant Listing

Wilmes, LLC — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:06:36 +0000

Budgets are tight and money is hard to find. Here’s a little list to help ease the pain. We will keep adding to this list as time goes on, so check back often. Miracle Kaboom Landscape Structures BYO Little Tykes American Academy of Dermatology Walmart Finish Line Hasbro Boundless Playgrounds Peaceful Playground LEGO

Protecting Children on the Internet – Cyber Safety & Security

Wilmes, LLC — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:55:53 +0000

With the rise in bullying incidents, many of which are occurring over the internet, it may be a good time to review a few of the laws that were designed to combat this and other harmful activities towards children – including sexual predators. Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) In 2001, the FCC issued rules pertaining ...

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Why Knee Pads Don’t Work

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 16:47:08 +0000

You have given all of your employees knee pads and not the cheap ones either. So, why are you still racking up the worker’s compensation claims? The answer is simple – knee pads only work if you wear them around your knees. And if you were them correctly around the knees and you can get ...

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OSHA Adopts GHS Standards

Wilmes, LLC — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 23:20:46 +0000

It’s been a long time coming. And it’s finally here. OSHA has adopted the GHS system. What is the GHS System? It’s the United Nation’s Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of chemicals. Remember, MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) and the HCS (Hazard Communication Standard), well GHS is the bigger, better, more advanced younger ...

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California AB2386 Breastfeeding Discrimination

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 15:06:19 +0000

AB 2386 looks to extend the definition of “sex” for discrimination purposes under FEHA to include the act of breastfeeding. “This bill amends existing statutory definition of ‘sex’ under FEHA to include breastfeeding, in order to prevent breastfeeding discrimination in the work place. Consequently, the proposed changes will prevent employers from terminating women for pumping ...

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CSSP goes on DTS

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 22:19:48 +0000

We are excited to announce that we will be offering many of our written safety plans on Document Tracking Services (DTS) software delivery system. Over the past several months we have been working to deliver our safety plans in a streamlined format to schools. DTS has allowed us to use their platform for content delivery. ...

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Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Wilmes, LLC — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 22:12:06 +0000

With the increase in shootings on school campuses in the last few weeks, many school administrators are scrambling to figure out what to do. We have always suggested starting with audits. Audits are a great way to determine where you need to focus your effort. They are the gap analysis or needs assessment tool of ...

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Can I enroll a volunteer in the EPN program in California?

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:48:28 +0000

This is a tough one because it often depends on the CHP officer or DMV analyst that you speak to. Some will tell you that you cannot and others will say you can. The reality is that just because a person is a volunteer driver, does not mean that their free labor reduces your ...

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Are Playgrounds Too Safe?

Wilmes, LLC — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 23:53:36 +0000

CPSI’s we finally did it! We designed our way right over the dark side of the moon. We have made our playgrounds too safe….at least that is what the New York Times is reporting. If one thing that this story highlights it is that you can never make anyone happy. If we want to let ...

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Series – Branding for Risk Management, Safety & Security – Part 5

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 17:29:22 +0000

Geographics! Yes, geographics. You weren’t expecting that one were you? Well, every once in awhile we have to take care of the basics and make it easy on ourselves. Most of the time this is an easy area to identify. Just pick those zip codes that you physically can support. But, let’s look at the ...

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Series – Branding for Risk Management, Safety & Security – Part 4

Director of Loss Control — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 17:10:30 +0000

Now it’s time to tackle a little tougher subject about our ideal customers – “behaviors”. This one can be difficult to define when you first start thinking about it and it kind of blends in with other areas, such as values and beliefs. But what we are looking for here are those certain behaviors or ...

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Series – Branding for Risk Management, Safety & Security – Part 3

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:01:09 +0000

Great, we have identified our customer’s demographics. Now, we must tackle a slightly different research project regarding our customers – Psychographics! No, not pyscho as in crazy, but as in what makes them tick. What motivates our customers to do the things that they do. What kind of lifestyles do they lead? Are they an ...

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Series – Branding for Risk Management, Safety & Security – Part 2

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 20:35:24 +0000

So, we have identified that we stink at communications (at least in the bigger picture sense) and that we are going to do something about it. And that is reworking our BRANDING model. We are going to sink into developing a marketing plan for our department (a micro-marketing plan) a plan within a plan. While ...

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Series – Branding for Risk Management, Safety & Security – Part 1

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:48:08 +0000

Okay, this is no surprise – your risk management department is viewed thru a negative lens. Why, so is your safety department and oh yeah, let’s not forget your security department. So, what is the problem? I have been reading business books for a long time now (probably more than 200 in the last 10 ...

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Is lockable door hardware required on school classroom doors?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 07:11:37 +0000

One of the issues that came out of the Columbine tragedy was the inability to lock classroom doors from the interior. The major premise behind not providing lockable door hardware has been concerns over fire hazards, child molestation, egress and the like. With the introduction and chapter of AB 211 in 2009, lockable door hardware ...

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Are students required to be fingerprinted in Calfiornia if they volunteer at their own school?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 07:03:28 +0000

With the passage of the ASCC certificate, many people now believe that students must be fingerprinted if they volunteer to tutor other students at their own school or at a school within their district. Originally, the ASCC requirements looked at fingerprinting the Directors of pupil activities and later was broadened to any person involved ...

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Do school districts have to take all public claims for damages to Board?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 06:57:41 +0000

The short answer is “no.” California Government Code Section 935.4 allows School Districts to designate an official to handle claims for itself as long as those claims are not over $50,000.00 in compromise or settlement. Now, that does not mean that a School Board cannot decide to put in a lower threshold and be more ...

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Is pepper spray considered tear gas in California?

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 06:25:59 +0000

Yes, the reason that you cannot locate “pepper spray” in the penal code is because it is consider “tear gas” in California. California Penal Code regulates the use of tear gas in the state of California. The section is Penal Code 12403.7. See the code below. As of 2013, the section of code has moved ...

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Why you need to shave your chest if you are over 40.

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 23:08:35 +0000

Let’s face it, if you are 40 or older you already know that you are not getting any younger and neither is your heart. The likelihood of suffering cardiac arrest will increase as you age. With the increase in technology and decreasing prices, AED’s are being installed in more and more places and it is ...

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Don’t Run Red Lights

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 19:26:18 +0000

Where is playground supervision required?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 19:43:44 +0000

California has adopted playground safety regulations. They are hidden in an unlikely place – Title 22 Social Services. Why California did not place it in Health & Safety Code is beyond comprehension. California Title 22 Section 65745 addresses the issue of supervision by referring it to the CPSC Handbook Publication #325, Subsection 6.4. This particular ...

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Reprint: 2010 AHA Guidelines for CPR & ECC

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:14:53 +0000

Reprint: 2010 AHA Guidelines for CPR & ECC.

CPR Instructions – CPR Guidelines – How to Perform CPR

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:14:50 +0000

CPR Instructions – CPR Guidelines – How to Perform CPR.

The Checkup – First aid and CPR guidelines revisited

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:30:36 +0000

The Checkup – First aid and CPR guidelines revisited.

50 Most Dangerous Colleges – The Daily Beast

Director of Loss Control — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:15:01 +0000

And you thought that the schools in California were dangerous? Read this and you will be surprised. 50 Most Dangerous Colleges – The Daily Beast.

College Safety Rankings – The Daily Beast

Director of Loss Control — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:14:49 +0000

Wanna know if your college is safe? College Safety Rankings – The Daily Beast.

Medical News: FDA Approves New Antibiotic for CABP and MRSA – in Infectious Disease, Pneumonia from MedPage Today

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:15:44 +0000

Medical News: FDA Approves New Antibiotic for CABP and MRSA – in Infectious Disease, Pneumonia from MedPage Today.

University dean accidentally hits the ‘reply all’ button | Higher Ed | eSchoolNews.com

Director of Loss Control — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 07:28:55 +0000

University dean accidentally hits the ‘reply all’ button | Higher Ed | eSchoolNews.com.

School IPM Recordkeeping Calendars Available

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 19:53:39 +0000

The new California school pesticide calendar is in and wow is it cool. There are tons of great images with a lot of reminders and great information off to the side. Enjoy. Download it here. http://apps.cdpr.ca.gov/schoolipm/10-11_calendar.pdf

New CPR guidelines change up the steps | freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:54:36 +0000

New CPR guidelines change up the steps | freep.com | Detroit Free Press.

10 students injured as explosion rocks North High – The Daily Breeze

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:11:29 +0000

10 students injured as explosion rocks North High – The Daily Breeze.

What is the Connelly Act? The asbestos notification rule.

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:19:26 +0000

The Connelly Act, not to be confused with the Connally Act, was established by AB 3713 of 1988 and it is also known as the Asbestos Notification Rule. AB3713 implemented California Health & Safety Code Section 25915 which requires building owners to disclose to employee’s the existence of ACM in their buildings to the occupants ...

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Guidance Targeting Harassment Outlines Local and Federal Responsibility | U.S. Department of Education

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 17:13:47 +0000

Guidance Targeting Harassment Outlines Local and Federal Responsibility | U.S. Department of Education.

Meeting Notice – OSHA

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:06:58 +0000

Meeting is being held on Section 7311.1 and 7311.2 for conveyances. Wed. Nov 10, 2010 at Elihu Harris State Building, 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1304, Oakland, CA 94612 at 1pm.

Who was the Field Act named after?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 04:43:48 +0000

The Field Act, not to be confused with the Civic Center Act, was enacted on April 30, 1933, by Don Field 30 days following the 6.3 earthquake of Long Beach, California. The earthquake destroyed more than 230 school buildings. The Act was intended to make school buildings a safe place for students to learn inside ...

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Are California charter schools exempt from the Field Act?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 04:38:27 +0000

California Education Code Section 47610 exempts generally charter schools. Read the CA Attorney General’s Opinion number 96-1206 at http://wilmes.co/reports/96-1206.pdf 47610. A charter school shall comply with this part and all of the provisions set forth in its charter, but is otherwise exempt from the laws governing school districts, except all of the following: (a) As ...

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Does the Field Act affect California community colleges?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 04:32:31 +0000

Yes, in California, it affects community colleges in an optional way. AB127 of 2006 gave Community Colleges the option to comply with Building Codes or the Field Act. This was codified in Education Code Section 81052. 81052. Each school building constructed, reconstructed, modified, or expanded after July 1, 2006, on a community college campus ...

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What code prohibits the use of 15 passenger vans in K-12 school districts?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:46:31 +0000

California Education Code Section 39800.5. But, let’s make sure that you understand that their use is not completely prohibited. It is only prohibited if you do not hold a Class B license with the Passenger Endorsement. I stress the word “WITH” here. So, while they are dangerous and we do not suggest that you operate ...

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Child Abuse – Prevention of Child Maltreatment

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:38:29 +0000

The CDC has a fabulous webpage on the topic of Child Maltreatment

Can we use electrical extension cords or flexible cords?

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:34:32 +0000

This is a big problem in every organization – there’s never enough outlets. So, what do you do? That’s right, plug-in 17 extension cords, so you can run your coffee pot, your air freshener, and charge your cell phone, tablet, reading device, key chain photo album and 15 other electronics. Sure you can use them, ...

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The pitfalls of using social networking or other online searches to screen for job applicants.

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:05:46 +0000

Well, the day is here. The day that we have exposed ourselves to the world and then scream for privacy rights. The fact of the matter is that we have placed our photos, our actions, our kids, likes, dislikes, political interest and some things that we should never share. All of this is fine, until ...

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Should school employees follow do not rescuitate (DNR) orders?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:31:25 +0000

No, you as a school district employee cannot legally follow a DNR order in California. Only a Medical Doctor can do so. Even though Education Code Section 49407 allows a parent or guardian to file a DNR or other objection to medical treatment (outside of First Aid), this is a document for school employees to ...

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Can we lock our classroom doors during school hours?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:15:05 +0000

There are many reasons why you may wish to lock your school classroom doors during the school day. And there are just as many reasons why you shouldn’t. If you have read the article “Is lockable door hardware required on school classroom doors?” then you may already know that all new construction is going to ...

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Do I need to fingerprint and background contractors and volunteers who work in schools?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:03:59 +0000

There is always a controversy around fingerprinting employees and volunteers that work in schools. Let’s face it, you need to do it. California Education Code governs the fingerprinting of those who work and volunteer in schools. AB 1025 of 2009/2010 solidified the issue of fingerprinting by requiring it for certain volunteers, but still missed a ...

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What should I look for in a Cyber Audit?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:42:49 +0000

It is always hard to vet a vendor, but cyber audit vendors may pose more difficult challenges. Here are a few designations that should help determine their worthiness. Are they members of ISSA or ISACA? Do they hold the CISSP desingation? Follow the ISO 27000 series for these types of audits.

What was the bill that addressed Hands Free Wireless Telephone usage in vehicles

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:23:40 +0000

Hands Free Wireless Telephone Does not apply to 2-way radio BILL NUMBER: SB 1613 CHAPTERED BILL TEXT CHAPTER 290 FILED WITH SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 APPROVED BY GOVERNOR SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 PASSED THE SENATE AUGUST 31, 2006 PASSED THE ASSEMBLY AUGUST 29, 2006 AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY AUGUST 24, 2006 AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY AUGUST ...

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Need a sample disclaimer for your safety blog?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:14:52 +0000

You have elected to visit the Weblog (blog) portion of our web site. The blog feature allows readers to comment on stories we make available on our website for the general interest of our members and associates. (Your Company Name) cannot anticipate the comments which may appear on the blog however we reserve the right ...

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Retro Safety Video

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:11:59 +0000

Next time you are selecting a safety video for training, remember how we got our reputation as being kind of boring….

Where are service animals/dogs regulated?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:09:02 +0000

Service Animals, not therapy animals, are regulated in the Food & Ag Code in California. Basically, they are allowed the same rights to enter any building or mode of transportation as a human being, even if they are just in training. Do not under any circumstance, other than endangerment to another person (safety reasons) prohibit ...

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U.S. Chemical Safety Board – Hot Work Video, a must see

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:05:04 +0000

It’s on youtube.com but the USCSB did not allow for the embedding of the vid, so you have to click the link to go to youtube.com http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=USCSB#p/u/0/zWkcuR0adeI

Can we use Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) in Playgrounds

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:57:53 +0000

This seems like common sense, but the reality is that if you leave wood outside, pests are going to munch on it. Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) should not be used in wooden playground structures, but you cannot always get around it. If you do have this substance in your wooden structure, it needs to be ...

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Crowd Control – A look from above.

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:45:45 +0000

If you ever wondered why crowd control is an issue, take a look at this video here. http://ncs4.com/industryday.php

Venue Safety & Security, Security for Stadiums

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:44:39 +0000

Here’s a resource that you may find useful if you have large venues (stadiums, arenas, etc…) for public, private and higher education entities. The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at the University of Southern Mississippi. They also have an on-line training program called “Sports Venue Safety & Security Training“ for ushers, ticket ...

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What are the temperature requirements for classrooms and restroom water delivery?

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:18:13 +0000

Everyone is always asking if there are temperature requirements for this and that. Well, yes and no. Here’s what our research has found: With regard to water in schools, the only requirement that I could find was in Title 22, Div 12, Article 7 (Child Care Facility Regulations) Section 101239(e)(1) to keep hot water between ...

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Looking at the Past and Ahead to the Future of the National Playground Safety Institute (NPSI) « International Playground Safety Intstitute

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 07:47:32 +0000

Looking at the Past and Ahead to the Future of the National Playground Safety Institute (NPSI) « International Playground Safety Intstitute.

Where are the occupant load posting requirements located?

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 06:07:36 +0000

This is always a tricky one for people because the regulations are not easily found on the internet. The key to remember is that the code only calls for posting max load signage in rooms without fixed seating installed. It may be overdoing it to post these signs in all rooms, but if you have ...

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ADA – Playgrounds and accessible wheelchairs – woodchips, fibar and sand

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 06:02:38 +0000

Okay, this has not been tested in reality yet, but one could only think that there has got to be a better way to address this issue of using sand and woodchips as playground surfacing protection materials. The issue has been going round and round due to these materials being questioned as to their ADA ...

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OSHA creates a dedicated whistleblower web page

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:55:45 +0000

Federal OSHA launched its whistleblower page to provide assistance to employees who need to report certain violations while giving themselves protection against employers who don’t take safety seriously http://www.whistleblowers.gov/

Title 19 adds flamethrower device permitting

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:53:54 +0000

Title 19 – State Fire Marshall – Public Safety has added flamethrower device permit requirements to Section 1054 thru 1067. This should have been in T19 for some time now, but for whatever reason it was overlooked. No more….

What are the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccination requirements?

Director of Loss Control — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:51:13 +0000

AB 354 of 2010 by Arambula and Fletcher made changes to California’s Health & Safety Code 120335 which lifted the age requirements for immunizations against listed diseases – one being pertussis. It also made it mandatory to have a pertussis immunization prior to entering 7th grade. This is due to the recent re-emergence of pertussis ...

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Hot Water – Scolds baby at daycare

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 06:24:16 +0000

People seem never to take water temperature seriously. Here is one reason you should.

Pesticide vs Insecticide vs Herbicide

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 04:32:21 +0000

I am re-posting this email blast in all its glory because I thought it could not be more appropriate for the topic. You may think pesticide means insecticide. Actually, pesticide refers to not only insecticides, but also herbicides and many other kinds of chemicals. A pesticide is any substance intended to control, destroy, repel, or ...

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Where can I find cheerleading or Spirit safety courses?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 04:26:19 +0000

These two sources can help you locate the safety courses for cheerleading better known as Spirit. Online Or On-Site

What is the concussion rule in football?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 04:25:01 +0000

On May 7, 2010, CIF passed Bylaw 313 which made sweeping changes to help save student-athlete’s lives. The rule basically states that if a player is suspected of having a concussion, they must be taken out of play and cannot return until they receive a doctor’s note from a licensed health care provider trained in ...

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Patch.com – a new source for local news

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 04:16:43 +0000

If you want to find out what’s going on in your community or with your local schools, you may want to check this newer website for local news. Patch.com

Rideshare programs – are employers required to partcipate?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 03:48:23 +0000

If you are an California based company, then you are not required to participate in a Ride Share program, but you still must follow Rule 2202 as outlined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Learn more about Rule 22 Rule 22 applies to all Employers with more than 250 employees. The employer is ...

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2010 California Title 24 Codes

Director of Loss Control — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:19:25 +0000

The new codes become effective on Jan 1, 2011 for all occupancies gaining a permit on or after Jan 1, 2011. These codes will be in effect until 2013 2010 California Title 24 Codes.

Spectrum Matters…. Narrowbanding issues

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 22:46:12 +0000

More on narrowbanding from Spectrum Matters Spectrum Matters…..

Is the One-on-One Office Assessment Dead? | EHS Today

Director of Loss Control — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 21:13:18 +0000

Here is a great article on ergonomics and the way technology is changing the face of the game. Enjoy! Is the One-on-One Office Assessment Dead? | EHS Today.

‘School Pride,’ Reality TV Brings School Makeovers – NYTimes.com

Director of Loss Control — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:59:25 +0000

‘School Pride,’ Reality TV Brings School Makeovers – NYTimes.com.

Are paper toilet-seat-covers required?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 04:35:12 +0000

The short answer is “no” they are not required. At this time, we cannot find any regulation requiring them. California Health and Safety Code Section 114250 and California Building Code Section 1115B.8.4 address the issue of toilet accessories, but we don’t find any regulation requiring paper/tissue toilet seat covers. Be careful the accessories that you ...

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Is it a school bus or not?

Director of Loss Control — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 04:30:48 +0000

California Vehicle Code section 545 defines “school bus”. When you read it you will notice some inherent conflicts between (a) and (b), but don’t be fooled. The subsections of 545 stand separate and alone, meaning that there is a “OR” statement at the end of each subsection leading to either/or for each. This section of ...

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