Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) affect the tendons, tendon sheaths, muscles, nerves and joints. They cause persistent, recurring pains usually in the neck, shoulders, forearms, hands, wrists, elbows and lower limbs. These injuries may be caused by repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, or sust...
Archive for the ‘Health’ Category
Influenza in the Workplace
The flu season is in full swing. Every winter every year, thousands of workers become sick with flu viruses. Workers with the influenza virus who continue to work could potentially transmit the virus to others. What is Influenza? Influenza is a viral infection affecting the nose, throat, bronchi and, occasionally, the lungs. Inf...
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is identified by increased pressure in the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the palm side of the wrist. It protects the main nerve to the hand and the 9 tendons which bend the fingers. This condition affects the hand and is characterized by symptoms such as numbness, ......
Summer Fun or Summer Hazard?
Summer is here! The Lovin’ Spoonfuls’ song “Hot times summer in the City” speaks of all the fun we will have in the summer that lies before us. What this song does not do is forewarn us of some of the inherent dangers of the summer sun and the heat that comes with ......
Chemical Eye Burns
Approximately 7-10% of all eye injuries are caused by chemical burns. While some chemical eye burns result in minimal injury, every chemical exposure or burn has the potential of causing permanent damage and therefore, must be taken seriously....
How do I deal with someone who has fainted?
What is Fainting? Fainting (also known as syncope) is a temporary loss of consciousness. Fainting occurs when the brain experiences a temporary loss of blood supply. These episodes are short-lived and the person who has fainted usually becomes alert very quickly after he/she regains consciousness. 3% of people between the ages o...
Asbestos Safety
Many people who are aware of the dangers of asbestos may believe that it is only a health concern for WWII veterans and firefighters. However, the issue of asbestos exposure is very relevant for other professionals, including EMS and first responders, as well as others who may respond to a natural disaster or other emergency. .....
Obesity – How does it affect me?
Obesity was considered to be a problem exclusive to high income countries. Over the past few years however, obesity has risen dramatically in low and middle income countries as well especially in urban areas. What is Obesity? Obesity is generally defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulations on a person’s body which adver...
What is a Stroke and how do I deal with it?
A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). This interruption causes brain cells in the affected area to die. The effects of a stroke depend on where the brain ......
What are Poisons and how do I deal with them?
A Poison is any substance that cause damage, illness or death to people and/or animals. There are four ways for poisons to enter a body. They may be: Consumed (i.e. swallowed) Inhaled (i.e. breathed in) Absorbed (i.e. comes into contact with the skin) Injected (i.e. through needles or venomous animals) Common Poisons The com...
