Distracted driving causes vehicle accidents and deaths. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 3,166 traffic fatalities, or 8.5% of traffic deaths, in the United States in 2017 were linked to driver distraction. However, there is some disagreement on how much distracted driving can be attributed to cell phone use.

A 2018 study by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicates that between 2014 and 2018, cell phone use while driving rose 57%. On the other hand, NHTSA estimates that the prevalence of drivers using hand-held or hands-free cell phones decreased from 9% of drivers in 2012 to 5.3% in 2017. To learn more about smart phone use and distracted driving, check out EMC Insurance’s Loss Control Insights article.

Ladders lead to injuries, perhaps because they appear to be such a simple tool. Just open it or lean it against a wall, then climb up to extend your reach. It’s easy to forget that climbing above the floor, especially if you are carrying tools and heavy items, is dangerous. And because they are ever-present and shared among many employees, it’s also easy to neglect them, and not notice when they are damaged or unsteady.

If your company relies on traditional ladders, you must ensure employees are following your ladder safety program in their use and maintenance. For more on ladder safety, check out the the EMC Insurance Loss Control Insights article.

Even though summer is winding down, chances are there will still be some hot days remaining. EMC Industrial Hygienist Jordan Curzon answers common questions about heat illness. To learn more, check out this article from the EMC Loss Control Insights.