News  |  Webinars  |  White Papers  |  Podcasts  |  Magazine  |  Subscribe  |  Advertise Home       March 28, 2024 Addressing Water Contamination Issues in Industrial Workplaces // By MIA BARNES While fresh water is a precious and essential resource, contamination is quite common. Many accidental exposures — both by drinking or touching chemical water — have resulted in diseases. Learn how industrial companies can address contamination issues to maximize water systems and improve workplace safety. Prevalence of Water Contamination in Industrial Workplaces Scientists in the U.S. conducted a study to determine what contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are present in treated and untreated water using samples from 25 treatment plants throughout the country. They determined 247 microbiological pollutants, including chemicals used in homes, businesses and industries. Unfortunately, some of these aren't monitored or regulated by the EPA. Therefore, information about them is scarce, posing a problem in the case of contamination. Sources of Water Contamination in Industrial Settings Pollutants can seep into the water systems from many sources. • Chemical spills. Industrial businesses use several agents and solvents in their processes. Leaks can sometimes occur due to accidents or negligence. • Microbial contamination. It can happen in industrial plants where biofilms and stagnant water exist. These environments can become breeding grounds for microorganisms for water pollutants. • Heavy metals. In the U.S., roughly 9.2 million service lines are made of lead, carrying water in several communities. Poisoning can happen when passing water corrodes the metal and distributes traces to households and workplaces. Health Impacts of Contamination on Industrial Workers Water pollution can affect anyone. Contamination often leads to the following health concerns. Continue reading EVENTS CALENDAR April 4 Unlocking Chemical Safety: Navigating Hazard Classifications and Essential SDS Details → April 10 Creating a Visual Workplace with Brady → April 11 Medical Surveillance in Occupational Health & Safety – Special Focus on Construction → April 16 Rethinking Hand Safety Revised: Quick Tips and Nudge Theory Insights → April 17 OSHA Training for General Industry: Reviewing the Elements for Select Topics → SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Subscribe to stay on top of this rapidly changing technology. Feel free to forward this newsletter to a colleague or associate. News Update Why Equipment Sanitation Is Essential for Worker Safety Improper equipment sanitation can cause unnecessary injuries. What can employers do to ensure the well-being of their workforce? Unsanitary Equipment Causes Injuries and Fatalities As many construction workers can attest, inadequate sanitation efforts continue affecting workers even when they're off the clock. A study revealed construction workers have been exposing themselves and their families to unsafe levels of arsenic, lead, manganese, chromium, copper and nickel because of contamination at their job sites. VPPPA Hosts 2024 Process Safety Management Summit in April The Voluntary Protection Programs Participants' Association (VPPPA) is set to host its 2024 Process Safety Management (PSM) Summit on April 10 and 11, 2024. According to the event's website, the summit—which will take place at the Health and Safety Council (HASC) Training Center in Pasadena, Texas—provides attendees with PSM industry education and networking opportunities. PSM professionals from various sectors will lead nine separate sessions focused on topics, such as current trends, prominent challenges, and innovative solutions that may elevate safety programs. View More News Featured products Check out all the new products: Occupational Health and Safety Products Resources Visit the OHS magazine Web site at https://www.ohsonline.com Searching for a particular company? Check out our Industry Directory Online If you have a tip of the week or a question to share for publication, please e-mail it to us. Please include your name, title, company name, city and state with your submission. Due to security concerns, we are unable to accept tips sent in the form of an e-mail attachment. Read in Browser  |  LinkedIn  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Subscribe  |  Unsubscribe  |  Customer Service Copyright 1105 Media Inc 6300 Canoga Ave., Suite 1150, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express permission of 1105 Media Inc. is prohibited. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of their respective holders. Review our Privacy Policy