Masonic Education 4- Mommy, Is That Man A Mason?

by Ex. Comp. Don Maybaugh, Jr. (Ohio)

The Royal Arch Mason - Spring 1977

The following story was related to me by my daughter.

A couple of months ago, my five-year-old granddaughter was in the front yard, jumping rope with her sister. The one end of the rope was tied to a tree, the other end, in the hands of her sister was being twirled. My granddaughter was jumping when suddenly the rope became tangled.

Just then a retired neighbor from the next street came walking by. Seeing the girls were in trouble, he stopped to help untangle the rope and retied it properly. He then took hold of the other end and spent several minutes showing them how to twirl it properly. My granddaughter then thanked him.

His answer to her was, "Honey, you don't have to thank me it was my duty," after which he continued walking down the street.

My granddaughter then went into the house and asked her mother, "Mommy, is that man a Mason?" Her mother smiled and said, "Yes, honey, that man is a Mason!"

They say that out of the mouths of babes come words of wisdom. That same man was senior warden 30 years ago, when I was raised a Master Mason. Although, due to ill health, he had not attended lodge in the last few years, he still remembered his obligations. When he was active, he inspired me enough that I vowed to myself that someday I would become master. Due to my work for 20 years, I was unable to fulfill that vow. But, in the last few years, I have been privileged to serve as master, high priest, and now as generalissimo of my Commandery. I am hoping to serve as commander next year.

As such, I have often heard, "Why is attendance in all bodies on the decline?" We strive for perfection in our lodge ritual work, but do we, as Masons, let our light shine before men that they may see our good works?

The Mason of whom I have spoken, although unable to attend lodge, was able to impress a five-year-old girl. Can we not learn from this event that our everyday lives in lodge, work and the home are what it is all about? My little granddaughter has seen me rush home from work, dress and hurry to lodge. The night I was installed as master, she gave me a worshipful master's pin to wear on my lapel.

She may be only five years old, but she seems to know what Masonry is about.

I ask each of you who read this now ... during your lifetime, how many times has the question been asked about you by your neighbors, adults and children alike, is he a Mason?

Earlier this evening we gave this man a Masonic burial service. I than related this event to his widow and family. Upon returning home, I asked myself: How many times has this man let his light before other that they could see his good works?

He served Wellington Lodge as master and was high priest of Wellington Chapter during the year 1947. His name: Lloyd Irish.

Health Corner 6- Heel Spur Syndrome

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

A heel spur is a calcium deposit on the underside of the heel bone. On an X-ray, a heel spur protrusion can extend forward by as much as a half-inch. Without visible X-ray evidence, the condition is sometimes known as "heel spur syndrome."

Although heel spurs are often painless, they can cause heel pain. They are frequently associated with plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the fibrous band of connective tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot. 

Treatments for heel spurs and associated conditions include exercise, custom-made orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and cortisone injections. If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary.

Causes of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs occur when calcium deposits build up on the underside of the heel bone, a process that usually occurs over a period of many months. Heel spurs are often caused by strains on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, and repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. Heel spurs are especially common among athletes whose activities include large amounts of running and jumping.

Continue reading below...

Risk factors for heel spurs include:

·   Walking gait abnormalities,which place excessive stress on the heel bone, ligaments, and nerves near the heel

·   Running or jogging, especially on hard surfaces

·   Poorly fitted or badly worn shoes, especially those lacking appropriate arch support

·   Excess weight and obesity

Other risk factors associated with plantar fasciitis include:

·   Increasing age, which decreases plantar fascia flexibility and thins the heel's protective fat pad

·   Diabetes

·   Spending most of the day on one's feet

·   Frequent short bursts of physical activity

·   Having either flat feet or high arches

 Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs often cause no symptoms. But heel spurs can be associated with intermittent or chronic pain -- especially while walking, jogging, or running -- if inflammation develops at the point of the spur formation. In general, the cause of the pain is not the heel spur itself but the soft-tissue injury associated with it.

Many people describe the pain of heel spurs and plantar fasciitis as a knife or pin sticking into the bottom of their feet when they first stand up in the morning -- a pain that later turns into a dull ache. They often complain that the sharp pain returns after they stand up after sitting for a prolonged period of time.

Toolbox 10- Prevent Fire

by: desertknightfm Rhojel 

A fire on the job can have devastating results. It can damage property and injure or even kill people. Yet every fire can be prevented.

To prevent on – job fires:

·         Follow Safety Procedures

Handle flammables with extreme care. Be aware of the flammables in your area and know their hazards. Become familiar with all required safety procedures and follow them. For example, use approved containers to store and transport flammables, wear proper personal protective equipment, avoid spills and drips, and follow all specified disposal procedures.

·         Inspect Equipment

The equipment and machinery you use should be inspected routinely to make certain that they are working properly. All fire fighting equipment should be checked regularly to ensure it is in good condition.

·         Practice Good Housekeeping

Always practice good housekeeping. Conduct routine inspection of your work area to ensure that all flammable materials are properly identified and in approved containers, excess flammables are removed, and fire exit are not blocked by materials or equipment.

·         Proper Storage of Flammable Liquids

We are all aware of the rigorous safety precautions at bulk plants, where million of gallons of      flammable products are stored. But even a small quantity of a flammable liquid like gasoline can be the source fire or explosion. It is important therefore to follow correct safety procedures around flammable liquids, including using the right containers to store and dispense them.

Portable ‘safety cans’ are available which are specially designed for handling small quantities of flammable liquids (from 1 pint to 5 gallons). Safety cans should be marked as having been approved by a recognized testing laboratory.

Approved containers have the following safety features:

·         A SPRING ACTION COVER. This has three vital safety functions: (1) it provides over-pressure relief, (2) it seals the containers against leakage, and (3) it minimizes evaporation and escape of vapors. The cover is designed to release pressure between 3 and 5 psi (pound per square inch). Rising temperatures may cause pressure build up to occur, the cap open to vent excess vapors in small controlled amounts, which can dissipate harmlessly into atmosphere.

·         A FLAME ARRESTER. This is the form of a wire screen located in the spout of the container. It is designed to prevent the vapor in the can igniting from outside heat source (for example, welding sparks or a lighted cigarette). To be effective, the flame arrester screen should fit properly and be held in place securely.

As well as fire and explosion hazards, these containers protect against health hazards containing vapors. Gasoline vapors in concentration of 1-2 percent can cause fatal unconsciousness, and concentration in excess of 2.4 percent can be fatal.

Safety cans should be stored safely in well-ventilated locations, and away from heat sources.

Proper storage also means proper labeling. Each container should be clearly labeled to identify its contents. In addition, containers should carry warning labels reading: Danger – Flammable – Keep Away from Heat, Sparks, and Open Flames. Keep Closed When Not In Use.

      FIRE EASY TO PREVENT … HARD TO FIGHT    

Toolbox 9- Fall Hazard and Protection

by: desertknightfm Rhojel 

Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, causing fully half of all construction fatalities.  Fatalities and injuries can be prevented by following the site fall protection program as instituted by your Site Safety and Health Representative (SSHR).

Fall Protection Program

1.      Assess the task and its scope, identify and classify all fall hazards, and determine the protection needs.

·         What is the fall hazard?

·         How can it be corrected or eliminated?

·         What personal protection equipment is needed?

·         What associated dangers exist?

2.      Consider all aspect of hazards.

·         What is the location?

·         What work is to be performed?

·         Is there a need to install or remove equipment?

·         Where are the anchorage points?

3.      Learn about the fall protection plan that your Site Safety Heath Representative has designed.  The plan is an OSHA requirement that addresses hazards, compliance methods, and training.

4.      Obtain the proper equipment. There are many different types of equipment.  Choose the types that provide the best protection for the job and are mutually compatible.

5.      Make sure you know the fall protection basics, such as how to work at various elevations, how to install fall protection systems, and how to use harnesses properly.  If you ever feel unclear about a task or any associated fall protection provisions, stop and ask your supervisor or the Site Safety Health Representative.

6.      As you go about your daily tasks, continually assess your work environment to see that hazards are addressed.  Suggest improvements to the fall protection program if you think they are necessary.

REMEMBER:    “DO NOT LEARN FROM ACCIDENT…  FOLLOW ALL SITE SAFETY RULES AND REGULATIONS!

Toolbox 8- Emergency Evacuation

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

Live Fuel gas line at PR-E/W and Process Area where we have ongoing activities is highly hazardous. This live fuel gas lines are marked. Any activities made w/in the Live Area will require an approved United Safe Work Permit.

Everyone is advice to take extra precaution especially during hot work activity when working near/ and or directly above the live fuel gas line. The hazards from possible fire or violent explosion must be prevented in order to protect us from potential body injury or death, damage to the project facility.

The following safety precautions should be followed when working near the live fuel gas line.

·         Secure the necessary safe work permit.

·         Identify the specific details in your safe work permit; work execution, location, gas burning, welding, grinding & drilling.

·         Follow the safe hot work procedure, assign firewatcher & use sufficient fire blanket with standby fire extinguisher.

·         Gas testing should be done prior to hot work in a continuous basis.

·         Check extension cords and welding cables prior to start of work. “Do not use damaged electrical tools”.

·         Make sure that grounding clamp sis connected at least 18” in distance from the weld point.

·         Ensure that tools/ and or materials are well secured while working above the live line.

·         Keep all fuel driven equipment at a safe distance away from the live line.

·         Cranes will not be allowed to travel under the pipe racks.

·         All mobile phone must be turn-off when working at the plant.

·         Lighter and matches are not allowed at the plant.

What to do during emergency evacuation situations in cases of gas leak, fire or explosion.

• Upon hearing the emergency alarm stop your work immediately secure your tools & materials, turn off electrical tools/equipment and proceed with caution to the assembly area. Do not run.
• Look for the wind direction thru the wind sack and/or steam.
• Never attempt to extinguish the fire alone.
• Do not go back for any reason unless the area was declared safe.
• If you are driving, park your car at the side of the road. Stop the engine & leave the ignition key.
• Supervisor should take a head count for all employees, visitors etc.
• Report your roll call results, and any other issues to the safety emergency response team members/supervisors.
• Renew your safe work permit, as previous permits are void.

“Strictly following all simple safety instructions shall make us safe and sound all the time”



Toolbox 7- Ladder & Scaffolding Safety

 

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

Many accidents have resulted from people doing things that they basically knew were wrong, but they went ahead and did them anyway.

Ladders, scaffolds, and other climbing devices and work platforms, if properly constructed and maintained, do not cause injuries – people who use them do.

The physical and structural specifications are well documented in many different sources; national safety council data sheets, building codes, and federal, state, and local safety standards. All of these specifications are helpful when designing and purchasing ladders, scaffolds, and railings. However when people start to use them, human judgement comes to play.

Judgement is one of those funny words that mean different things to different people. To clarify my intent, judgement implies training and correct application. An untrained person can make a judgment error due to lack of knowledge. Trained persons can commit judgment errors due to failure to apply what they know, perhaps for reasons such as hurrying, forgetting, preoccupation, distraction, and laziness.

Let’s get back to ladders – there are wooden ladders, steps and extension type, aluminum ladders, steel ladders, and fiberglass ladders. Each has special purpose and each should be used in the application it was design for. Examples are:

· Don’t use fiberglass ladders in areas of high heat, which can weaken the material.

· No metallic ladders should be used for electrical works.

Now, to refresh your memory on important ladders safety rules:

1.       Straight or extension ladders should be set so that the ladder base extends out from the wall or for a distance one-fourth the height of the ladders.

2.       Tops of ladders should be anchored and should extend at least three feet above the platform or floor they serve.

3.       The user must face the ladder and have both hands free for climbing up or down. Use hand lines or tool bags for tools.

4.       Avoid over reaching. One arm length either sides is the limit – move the ladders when needed.

5.       Make sure the ladder stable; use ladder shoes, secure the top, and have someone hold the bottom.

6.       Guard the base if working near a doorway or travel way.

7.       All fabricated ladders (scaffold tube & clamp) should have rungs spacing of 12” and with a maximum height of 2 meters only.

Scaffolds come in many different sizes and designs, so we will review some general rules:

·        If the platform is not protected by standard handrails and toeboards, a full body safety harness must be used.

·        Make sure freestanding scaffolds are stable; anchor if necessary.

·        Avoid using fiber rope for suspended scaffold if use around extreme heat, open flame, or where burning, welding, or cutting is being done.

You can avoid injury by using the right kind of ladders or scaffold, by careful pre-use inspection, by placing it properly and by observing safety rules.

STOP UNSAFE ACTS NOW!



Toolbox 6- Inspection And Color Coding Of Tools & Equipment At The Construction

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

 

 

It is essential to have frequent inspection for our construction tools to ensure workers have tools that are safe for use. A defective handle of a hammer can cause the hammer’s head to fly and hit someone; a mushroom cold chisel could cause injury to one’s eye or a faulty lanyard cam snap and cause “YOUR LIFE”.

To eliminate these kinds of accidents we must examine our tools carefully, we have inspection guideline forms to help us identify some of the hazards.

Work supervisor shall appoint and certify competent employees to inspect all tools and equipment monthly. All records of inspection shall be made available and submitted to safety department before the 3^rd day of the month.

All hand tools, fall arresting equipment, ladders, fire extinguishers, rigging equipment, electrical power tools, light & heavy vehicle and equipments engine driven equipment shall be color coded with the monthly inspection color coding.

Electrical power tools for example shall be color coded with electrical tape from electrical plug on the cord and welding machine or air compressor units shall be color coded with a color code sticker (Vehicle & General equipment Safety Inspection Tag) affixed with the following information – type of equipment, serial number, body number, date inspected and inspector’s name & signature.

Tools & equipments that are not inspected and do not bear the valid color code or inspection tag shall not be used and removed from the work area immediately.

All defective tools & equipments are to be tagged and removed from service until repaired and inspected.

“Always remember that our tools are part of our daily work…. With the right usage, good maintenance and care it will give us good productivity, quality work and help us do our job safely.

ACCIDENTS

DON’T JUST HAPPEN,

THEY ARE CAUSED

Health Corner 5- Repetitive Stress Injury

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs)

Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are injuries that happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, resulting in inflammation (pain and swelling), muscle strain, or tissue damage. This stress generally occurs from repeating the same movements over and over again (see examples below).

SIGN AND SYMPTOMS;

Twitching movements, numbness, or pain in the affected area, stiffness or soreness in the neck or back, feelings of weakness or fatigue in the hands or arms, popping or clicking sensation.

Taking Care of Yourself

                   Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to RSIs. Overall flexibility and strength can help to prevent RSIs, so exercise regularly and stay active (remembering warm-ups, cool-downs, and stretching, of course!).

Health Corner 4- Suspension Trauma

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

SUSPENSION TRAUMA

Suspension trauma (also known as “harness‐induced pathology” or “orthostatic shock while suspended”) is the development of presyncopal symptoms and loss of consciousness if the human body is held motionless in a vertical position for a period of time. It has been described in experiments of personal fall protection, and has been implicated in causes of death in mountaineering accidents, but it seems neither to be widely known about nor to have been presented to the medical profession.

PREVENTION!

Suspension trauma is probably an unrecognized condition in modern medical practice, as in the majority of cases where an individual is suspended vertically the workers or climbers can keep themselves moving using their legs as muscle pumps, and additionally are rescued relatively quickly. In those who are stranded, for example, on the top of a scaffold tower, other factors probably account for their collapse, including traumatic injury and environmental conditions.

Modern harnesses now use a sitting position with a waist strap and sub‐pelvic leg straps for support, which means a shorter vertical distance for blood to be pumped back from the legs. People using this equipment are also taught that if they find themselves suspended vertically, they need to do any of the following: adopt a sitting position, move themselves into a horizontal position or push their legs off from a hard surface to keep their muscle pumps active. Some harnesses also have foot straps to keep the legs mobile for the same reason (see Fig.1)

Workers using safety harnesses are not permitted to work alone at height so that a rescue plan can be activated promptly if they come into any difficulty, and so that they will therefore not be suspended for very long.

Health Corner 3 - Galvanize Poisoning

by: desertknightfm Rhojel

Metal Fume Fever

(Galvanize Poisoning)

Exposures to large amounts of the yellowish-green zinc oxide fumes will result in galvanize poisoning, commonly referred to as metal fume fever. The amount of exposure will have a direct effect on the severity of your symptoms.

Metal fume fever is short-lived and the symptoms begin to fade within four hours of exposure and generally completely fade within 24 hours. Extreme cases of overexposure may see metal fume fever symptoms last for as long as 48 hours.

Drinking milk can quicken the recovery process as calcium helps remove the zinc build-up from your body.

There have been studies performed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on the long-term effects of welding galvanized steel. No studies have shown long-term health problems due to continued exposure to zinc oxide fumes or repeated cases of metal fume fever.

Health Corner 2- Urine Dehydration Chart

by: desertknightfm Rhojel


Are you dehydrated?

 What can your urine color tell you about your hydration? At what point are you dehydrated? How do keep from dehydrating? It's so important that you learn the dehydration symptoms no matter what you do as a profession. Learning the dehydration signs and how to treat someone who is dehydrated can save a life, perhaps even your own.

What are the causes of dehydration?

Now, of course, exercise and sun exposure are not the only reasons for dehydration. Anytime you lose fluid from your body and don't replenish the fluids, you can get dehydrated. Illness is another common reason people get dehydrated. When you are sick and experiencing diarrhea and vomiting, you expel a lot of body fluids. It can be difficult to replace these fluids if you continue to be sick and/or find yourself getting sick from ingesting any food or water. If you are sick and vomiting, it is best to sip water slowly over time.

Other causes of dehydration can vary. Taking any stimulants, such as caffeine or more severe stimulants can cause you body to lose fluids. So a cup of coffee or a cola are not recommended drinks to replenish your body fluids. Any sugary drink for that matter is not a good way to quench your thirst and prevent dehydration. This is because for every molecule of sugar, it takes a molecule of water to break it down. The best cure for dehydration is drinking water. However, if you have sports drinks and other fluids designed for re-hydrating that body, those can work even better since they also replace electrolytes.

The following Dehydration Urine Color Chart will help you use your urine color as an indicator of your level of dehydration and what actions you should take to help return your body back to a normal level of hydration.

 Dehydration Urine Color Chart

Doing ok. You're probably well hydrated. Drink water as normal.

You're just fine. You could stand to drink a little water now, maybe a small glass of water.

Drink about 1/2 bottle of water (1/4 liter) within the hour, or drink a whole

bottle (1/2 liter) of water if you're outside and/or sweating.

Drink about 1/2 bottle of water (1/4 liter) right now, or drink a whole bottle (1/2 liter) of water if you're outside and/or sweating.

Drink 2 bottles of water right now (1 liter). If your urine is darker than this and/or red or brown, then dehydration may not be your problem. See a doctor.