Healthier Workforce Center: December News

Cold Hazards Video Released

Video thumbnail image and link to video "The Hierarchy of Controls: Cold Hazards"

Brrr... winter weather is here, but that doesn't mean work stops!

Cold weather brings new challenges, and for those who work outdoors or in chilly environments, the risk of cold stress is real. But fear not, there are ways to stay warm and safe on the job.

Enter the Hierarchy of Controls: a powerful framework to tackle workplace hazards like cold stress. Peggy Peterson, the Bureau Chief for Iowa OSHA's On-Site Consultation and Education Program under the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing, spoke with us about how to apply the hierarchy of controls to the case of extreme cold.

By understanding and applying the Hierarchy of Controls, we can create safe and healthy work environments for everyone when the temperatures drops.

Watch Here

Video thumbnail image and link to "The Hierarchy of Controls"

Watch Here

In Case You Missed It:

The Hierarchy of Controls

This video outlines how and why the hierarchy of controls should be utilized in the workplace to design the most effective hazard protections for workers.

Following this hierarchy of controls leads to the implementation of inherently safer systems, where the risk of illness or injury has been substantially reduced.

Community Funding Available in Iowa

The University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Business Leadership Network are excited to release the Community Grant Program Request for Proposals (RFP) for 2024. The College has an ongoing interest in collaborating with Iowa communities to meet the increasing needs for public health-related initiatives and projects.

For full details, download the RFP from the Business Leadership Network website.

Topic areas: Include but are not limited to healthy lifestyles, population health, addressing health disparities, workplace safety/wellness, community needs assessment, children and youth issues, healthy aging, arts and health collaborations, and sustainability of multi-generational livable communities. Additional preference will be give to projects that are focused on rural areas or address nutrition or food insecurity.

Who is eligible: Nonprofit organizations and local government entities in the state of Iowa.

Funds available: Grant awards of up to $3,000 each will be made to applicants in communities within the state. Grants require a minimum 1:1 cash or in-kind match.

Time frame:

• Proposal Due Date: January 12, 2024

• Awards Announced: February 12, 2024

• Grant Project Timeframe: March 1 - December 31, 2024

Learn More

Bonus Resources & Events

Wellness Steps That Work Well

The idea of “Workplace Wellness” has evolved dramatically during the past 60 years from “working lunches” to “work/life balance,” providing services, and driving employee engagement.

A comprehensive wellness program includes solutions and resources to manage chronic conditions, mental health, and health coaching. So, are Wellness Programs reserved for large corporations only? Only if you believe large businesses should be the only ones to benefit from improved productivity, a stronger workplace culture, and ultimately cost savings.

Hear from Kelsey Pruss, MS, and Karen Rehm from the Nebraska Safety Council Wellness Team, Bob Williams, Director of Human Resources at Garner Industries, and host John Lefler, Jr. to discuss the first steps to establishing a culture of wellness in your workplace. This discussion includes the fundamentals for communication, programming, and most importantly “buy-in” from your staff.

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