As we navigate through February, it’s crucial to stay informed about health and safety matters pertinent to this time of year. Below are key topics and events to keep in mind:
1. Heart Health Awareness
February is recognized as Heart Health Month. Given the sedentary nature of many jobs, it’s vital to prioritise cardiovascular well-being. Consider the following:
- Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate walking into your daily routine. Recent insights highlight that while the 10,000 steps goal is popular, individual needs vary. Walking can boost energy, improve sleep, and enhance overall health.
- Stress Management: Work-related stress can adversely affect heart health. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness or yoga.
2. Burn Prevention
With colder temperatures, there’s an increased use of heating devices, which raises the risk of burns. To ensure safety:
- Equipment Checks: Regularly inspect heaters and other electrical devices for faults.
- Safe Handling: Always use protective gear when dealing with hot equipment or substances.
3. Road Safety During Winter Months
Icy conditions and reduced visibility make commuting hazardous. Stay safe by:
- Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with appropriate tires and functioning lights.
- Cautious Driving: Allow extra time for journeys and maintain safe distances on the road.
4. Safer Internet Day 2025
Mark your calendars for Safer Internet Day on February 11th. This year’s theme is “Inspiring change? Making a difference, managing influence and navigating change online”. It’s an excellent opportunity to promote online safety practices.
5. Emergency Preparedness and Response
The Ireland East Branch of IOSH is hosting an online event on February 5th to discuss developing emergency preparedness and response plans. This session is valuable for enhancing our workplace safety protocols.
6. Product Recalls
Stay informed about recent product recalls to ensure safety:
- Lidl Ireland Recall: Lidl has recalled certain batches of Sriracha Deluxe Cheddar Cheese due to potential Listeria contamination. Check your purchases and avoid consumption of affected products.
- Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese Recall: Wicklow Gold Beechwood Smoked Irish Cheddar has been recalled over similar health concerns. Ensure to verify any cheese products at home.
7. Upcoming Conferences
- NOCA Annual Conference 2025: Scheduled for February 4th at RCSI, Dublin 2, focusing on ‘Data-Driven Healthcare: Planning, Delivering, Improving’. Attendance is encouraged for those interested in healthcare improvements.
8. Workplace Temperature Guidelines
With temperatures potentially dropping to -3°C, it’s essential to maintain a comfortable workplace:
- Indoor Work: While there’s no specific legal minimum temperature, guidelines suggest maintaining indoor workplaces between 18-23°C.
- Outdoor Work: Employers should provide appropriate protective clothing and consider the safety of outdoor tasks during extreme cold.
9. Road Safety Enforcement
Be aware that more automatic red-light cameras are being installed across Ireland to catch drivers breaking traffic rules, aiming to reduce road fatalities. Always adhere to traffic signals and drive safely.
10. Health System Advisory
Ireland’s health system is currently managing increased cases of flu, RSV, Covid-19, and norovirus. It’s advisable to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene to protect yourself and others.
Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s work together to maintain a healthy and secure environment.