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BE PREPARED TO COMBAT THE H1N1 PANDEMIC

WHO (World Health Organization) has declared the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) a pandemic; the first in 41 years. WHO said 74 countries had reported over 27,700 cases of swine flu, including 141 deaths. This includes a growing outbreak in Australia, where more than 1,000 cases have been identified in the state of Victoria alone. In Canada, a total of 4,905 confirmed cases of H1N1 flu virus have been reported in all provinces and territories including 284 hospitalizations and twelve deaths as of June 17, 2009. Health agencies stress that most cases are mild and require no treatment, but the fear is that a rash of new infections could overwhelm hospitals and health authorities. Any community or organization that does not have a pandemic plan in place is strongly advised to do so.

H1N1 Influenza A (SWINE FLU):

CANADIAN WINTERS AND EXTREME WORK ENVIRONMENTS

Temperatures in Ottawa are similar to those in Russia’s capital. For the month of January, Ottawa’s average high is -6.3°C and the average low is -15.5°C while Moscow’s average high is -7°C and average low is -13°C. Average temperatures for July are also close for the two cities.

WORKING IN EXTREME COLD

Working in cold environments is hazardous to your health and also life threatening. It is crucial that the body is able to preserve core body temperature steady at +37 degrees C (+98.6 degrees F). This thermal balance must be maintained to preserve normal body functions as well as provide energy for work activity. While working in cold environments, the body's mechanisms for generating heat meets three major challenges ... low temperature, wind and wetness.

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH EXTREME COLD

Hypothermia results when the body temperature falls below 35°C. Symptoms include drowsiness, impaired coordination and weakness. It can also be fatal.

Frostbite is the result of skin freezing. It causes swelling, redness, tingling and burning. Skin turns white and waxy as the frostbite progresses. Infection and loss of extremities can be the result. Frostnip is a condition where ice crystals from under the skin.

JOBS WHICH COLD MAY BE AN OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD

Workers at risk of suffering due to the cold include:

• Outdoor workers - Road Crews, builders, constructions workers, hydro and telecommunications, police officers, fire fighters, emergency response workers, military personnel, transport workers, bus and truck drivers.

• Workers in refrigerated warehouses

• Meat packaging and storage workers

• Outdoor recreation workers

HOW DOES COLD AFFECT WORK PERFORMANCE

Uncomfortably cold working conditions can lead to lower work efficiency and higher accident rates. Cold impairs the performance of complex mental tasks. Manual tasks are also impaired because the sensitivity and dexterity of fingers are reduced in the cold. At even lower temperatures, the cold affects the deeper muscles resulting in reduced muscular strength and stiffened joints. Mental alertness is also reduced due to cold-related discomfort.

BATTLING HEAT STRESS

QUICKICK® is an electrolyte replacement drink scientifically formulated to replace mineral salts, replenish fluids and sugars at optimal absorption rates which are depleted as a result of dehydration or through physical exertion in the workplace.

Implementing an electrolyte replacement program with QUICKICK® prevents or reduces the severity of heat stress disorders and provides a supplemental source of energy plus quenches thirst in a great tasting way. The following describes the symptoms of various heat disorders and what preventative measures can be taken to prevent dangerous situations from occurring:

HEAT DISORDER	SYMPTOMS	FIRST AID
Heat Cramps Heat Index @ 90°F - 100°F	Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen, possible heavy sweating	Firm pressure on cramping muscles, then gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of QUICKICK® every 15 minutes.
Heat Exhaustion Heat Index @ 105°F - 129°F	Heavy Sweating, weakness, dizziness, skin is cold, pale and clammy. Pulse steady, normal temperature, possible fainting and vomiting.	Get victim out of the sun, lie victim down, loosen clothes and apply cool cloths. Fan or move victim to air-cooled room. Give sips of QUICKICK® every 15 minutes for 1 hour. If victim vomits, get medical attention.
Over Exertion Heat Illness Heat Index @ 130°F or Higher	Stuporous appearance, tired and nauseated, may vomit, uncoordinated unsteady gait, perspiring heavily, dehydrated, overheated body temperature (up to 108°F) often accompanied by headache, rapid respiration and pulse	Cease exertion, promptly cool body exterior, and initiate replacement of fluids - water first, the QUICKICK®. If victim cannot retain fluids, get medical attention.
Heat Stroke Heat Index @ 130°F or Higher	High body temperature (106°F or higher), hot red dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, possible unconsciousness.	Heat stroke is a severe medical condition. Get the victim to the hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move victim to a cooler area. Reduce body temperature with cold water or sponging. Use fans and air conditioners. DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS!

WHAT IS HEAT STRESS?

Heat stress is the overall heat exposure on the body from the combination of body heat generated during strenuous activities, as well as environmental sources such as temperature, humidity, and radiation from the sun, and clothing requirements.

Most people feel comfortable when the air temperature is between 68°F and 80°F and when relative humidity ranges from 35% to 60%.

WHAT IS THE HEAT INDEX?

The heat index is the combination of high temperature and high humidity. When the temperature is high, and the relative humidity is high, it can feel a lot warmer than the thermometer indicates.

Example: The heat you feel when the actual temperature is 89°F with a relative humidity of 70% is 105°F.

When the heat index is high, it reduces your body’s ability to cool itself. Drink plenty of QUICKICK® and try to spend the midday hours someplace cool.

PREVENTION

Proper work procedures for reducing ill effects of heat stress involve scheduled work/rest cycles that keep you from over-doing it. In this case, rest means minimal activity, not stopping work completely. You may alternate light/heavy work or indoor/outdoor work. Duties may be rotated among work teams.

Fluid replacement is the most important way to protect your body’s thermo-regulation system. You must take in as much fluid as you lose during the day and replace electrolytes your body uses up in cooling. Often your body needs fluid before you feel thirsty, so don’t wait for thirst to drink fluids.

Remember that it is much easier to prevent heat stress injuries than to recover from them. Be aware of the environment in which you work and drink fluids with electrolytes, such as QUICKICK® on a regular basis throughout the workday.

AVIAN INFLUENZA (BIRD FLU)

Avian influenza (bird flu) is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. There are at least 15 types of avian flu, and they are all caused by various strains of type A influenza virus. Unlike wild birds, domestic poultry such as chickens and turkeys are more likely to become severely ill and die when infected. Birds spread large amounts of the virus through secretions and droppings, eventually contaminating dust and soil, and possibly becoming airborne. Avian Flu can be carried on contaminated equipment, vehicles, clothing and footwear. Insects can also act as carriers of the disease.

People who have been infected with avian flu become seriously ill and in some cases have died. The symptoms can resemble those of human influenza, including fever, cough, aching muscles and sore throat. The human health effects of avian flu can also include eye infections and serious respiratory infections, including pneumonia. Currently there is no vaccine available for Avian Flu.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Everyone is potentially at risk of infection from the spread of avian flu. People who are considered at High Risk include:

• Farm Workers / Animal Handlers
• Medical Workers / First Responders
• Laboratory Workers
• Food Processing / Food Handlers
• Airline Flight Crews
• Travelers

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Health Canada and The World Health Organization (WHO) encourage public vigilance and personal protection against the possibilities of contracting avian flu. Recommendations for protection against the spread of avian influenza include:

• Wash hands frequently with thorough use of soap and warm water, and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer between washings. Degil Recommends using GERM BLOC Hand Sanitizers
• Wear disposable coveralls, boots and shoe covers in areas of possible contamination. Degil Recommends using GENVEC Protective Clothing
• Minimum N95 respirator. Degil Recommends using ODYSSEY N95 Respirators
• Wear protective eyewear, goggles or face shield to protect against splashes to eyes, nose, etc. Degil Recommends using Jazz Safety Eyewear & Mach Face Shields
• Wear gloves that are latex, PVC or similar disposable hand protection
• Receive the current season’s influenza vaccine to reduce possibilities of dual infection with avian and human influenza virus
• Quarantine yourself if you become sick

Flu viruses have the capacity to combine amongst themselves, and mutate into a new strain. If someone with human influenza also becomes infected with avian influenza, there is a chance that the viruses could combine and create a new virus that could spread easily amongst humans, thus resulting in a world wide pandemic. There would be no immunity to the new virus, and it would take at least six months to develop a new vaccine. This is why it is extremely important to know how to minimize your risks of infection, and stop the spread of infectious diseases.

WEST NILE VIRUS 2005 UPDATE

West Nile virus has struck Toronto early this year with a 48 year old woman tested positive in Etobicoke. The fact that the first case in a human has occurred earlier this year creates concerns with the city's health officials. Last year, Toronto's first victim was diagnosed on August 13.

This summer's hot & steamy weather could increase the risk of widespread illness. Mosquito traps set across the city have turned up infected insects at 20 locations, and six birds have already tested positive for the virus. In prior years, infected mosquitoes have been concentrated near Lake Ontario from Etobicoke and westward. It is now being reported that evidence of West Nile virus is present throughout the city, and there's no one area that is free of the virus at this point.

Awareness and personal vigilance is the key to good protection. People should use insect repellents containing DEET anytime they go outside during mosquito season, especially at night, when mosquitoes are most active. DEET is the only ingredient that effectively repels mosquitoes and other insects.

West Nile Virus can be a horrible disease. There are many people who go unprotected against mosquito bites, and need to take the necessary precautions. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to cover exposed skin as much as possible when spending time outdoors. Use repellents containing DEET, and eliminate standing water areas around the home. It’s worthwhile to take those few seconds to reduce your risk of becoming infected.

CROC BLOC Insect Repellents are one of the many fine products on the market that are highly recommended to provide outdoor protection from mosquitoes and other biting insects. Non-DEET mosquito repellent products such as picaridin and lemon eucalyptus pathogens may be effective for short periods of time, but not nearly as effective as DEET.

RECENT REGULATORY CHANGES FOR PERSONAL INSECT REPELLENTS

In Canada, all pesticide products including personal Insect Repellents are regulated by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) division of Health Canada in Ottawa.

The PMRA has mandated changes to all personal Insect Repellents offered for sale in Canada. Insect Repellent products containing more than 30% DEET, MGK 264, Repellent 326 and Combination sunscreen and DEET cannot be manufactured in Canada after August 31, 2002.

As a result the affect that these new regulations will have on our Croc Bloc Insect Repellents are as follows.

1. SKU 12640 Combinator -PMRA has determined the risk to be unacceptable due to label statements for DEET versus sunscreen products, the "apply liberally/generously" is a label requirement for primary sunburn protectants, whereas the statement "apply sparingly" is a DEET label requirement. As a result of the label statements, this product is now discontinued. Retail sales of combination DEET/sunscreen products could take place until Dec 31, 2003.
2. SKU 12400 Insect Repellent Towelette will be reformulated to meet the new PMRA regulations containing a maximum of 30% DEET. Retail sales of Insect Repellent Towelette can continue until December 31, 2004, or until your stock is depleted.
3. SKU 12410 Insect Repellent Mouse will be reformulated to meet the new PMRA regulations, this requirement does not allow the use of MGK 264 to be used in any products sold in Canada. Retail sales can continue until current inventory is depleted.
4. SKU 12430 Heavy Duty Insect Repellent will be reformulated to meet the new PMRA regulations using a maximum of 30% DEET. The new requirement also does not allow the use of the ingredients MGK 264 and Repellent 326, which is restricted to be manufactured in any products in Canada after August 31, 2002. Retail sales can continue until December 31, 2004.

For more information on Health Canada's Pest Control Products Act, you can visit the Parliamentary Website.

2003 HEALTH AND FACT ALERT

Hard to believe, but it's time to prepare for outdoor protection programs for those workers that will be exposed to the sun and insects. The CROC BLOC™ family of sunscreens and insect repellents is one of the most comprehensive lines available "PROTECTING WORKERS ON THE JOB OR AT HOME". We have prepared this information to help you understand the health hazards outdoor workers are exposed to each and every day and how to best protect against these potentially dangerous occupational injuries.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN!

FACT - As printed in the OHS Canada's Jan/Feb issue, a construction worker was awarded an appeal from Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal ( WSIAT ) for compensation benefits claimed eight years ago for lost time injury due to skin cancer that he contracted after spending over 30 years in the construction industry. This gentlemen had 24,000 hours of cumulative outside exposure to the sun. After this decision, the WSIB confirmed that it has settled 45 other skin cancer cases since 1974 and that 10 of those cases involved construction workers.

As written in the Canadian Occupational Safety and Health Regulations:

Canada Labor code, PART II
Skin Protection

12.9 Where there is a hazard of injury or disease to or through the skin in a workplace, the employer shall provide to very person granted access to the workplace

(a) a shield or screen
(b) A CREAM TO PROTECT THE SKIN; or
(c) an appropriate body covering

Health & Safety Regulations

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE WEST NILE VIRUS!

FACT - In 1999, the West Nile Virus was first detected in the U.S.A., in New York City.
FACT - August 2001, it was confirmed in two dead birds found in southern Ontario.
FACT - 2002, the West Nile Virus spread to 34 states. In the state of Louisiana, 112 residents were infected, killing five and putting dozens in the hospital. Governor declares a state of emergency as the mosquito born virus has been found in virtually every corner of the state.
FACT - 2003, Provincial Governments have committed millions of dollars to programs that will monitor the West Nile Virus and will be putting into place more aggressive insect control campaigns during the spring and summer.
FACT - Outdoor workers are exposed.

PROTECT THE OUTDOOR WORKER FROM THESE DANGEROUS OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES USING COMMON SENSE, PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, AND CROC BLOC™ SUNSCREEN AND INSECT REPELLENT PRODUCTS