Asbestos is a general term used to describe several mineral silicates which are separable into fibers. Asbestos exposure is a major health hazard and inhalation of asbestos can produce severe lung damage. Marine Corps policy is to eliminate asbestos exposure by substitution with non-asbestos-containing materials or, where this is not feasible, through the use of engineering and administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). Occupationally exposed personnel or those personnel with potential for exposure, and their supervisors, shall receive detailed indoctrination and annual refresher instruction. The Industrial Hygiene determines employees' exposure as well as conducts baseline physicals and determines the frequency of follow on physicals.

For more information call (760) 830-8467 or DSN 230-8467.

ORDERS
29 CFR 1910.1001 & 1926.1101
29 CFR 1910.1025
29 CFR 1926.62
MCO 5100.29_

LINKS
US Dept of Labor (OSHA)
NAVY Safety Center - Asbestos 
NAVY Safety Center - Lead

Pathogens carried in bodily fluids can be a cause of serious illness and death. Personnel at risk includes health professionals, first aid providers, fire department and crash fire rescue personnel, and workers involved in maintenance or housekeeping work that exposes them to blood or other infectious bodily fluids. First responders and occupationally exposed personnel, as determined by the industrial hygienist, will be included in a medical surveillance program and provided appropriate training.

For more information call (760) 830-5008 or DSN 230-5008. 

Base Industrial Hygienist: (760) 830-2029 or DSN 230-2029.

ORDERS
29 CFR 1910.1030
MCO 5100.29_


LINKS
DOL OSHA - Bloodborne Pathogens

The Marine Corps is required to have a confined space entry program (non-maritime). Numerous confined spaces can be found aboard Marine Corps installations or units. Examples of such spaces include storage tanks, pits, boilers, portable water tanks (including bulls), fuel cells, ditches, sewers, utility vaults, tunnels, and manholes.

The following characteristics define a confined space:

1. The space is not designed for routine human occupancy.
2. The space is large enough for bodily entry.
3. The space has a restricted access or exit.

If there is a doubt of whether a location is a confined space or not, please contact this office at (760) 830-8467 or DSN 230-8467.

Ergonomics is the field of study that involves the application of knowledge about human capacities and limitations to the design of workplaces, jobs, tasks, tools, equipment, and the environment. Ergonomics is essentially fitting the workplace to the worker. The primary goal of ergonomics in the workplace is to reduce the risk of injuries and illnesses (cumulative trauma disorders or CTDs) by reducing or eliminating worker exposure to work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) hazards.

Ergonomics information, training, and program oversight (760) 830-5351

ORDERS
MCO 5100.29_

LINKS
OSHA Ergonomics
DoD Ergonomic Working Group

The ESO is responsible to the Base Commander for oversight of programs involving the storage, handling and transportation of ammunition and explosives (A&E) on and off Base; annual explosives safety inspections (ESI); compliance with regulations that govern A&E policies; and the interactions with DoD agencies that enforce A&E policies, such as NOSSA (Naval Ordnance Safety & Security Activity), DDESB (Department of Defense Explosives Safety Board), and AMHAZ (Ammunition and Hazardous Materials Safety Board).

For more information call (760) 830-8464 or DSN 230-8464.

LINKS
Navy Safety Center
Defense Ammunition Center Training

The goal of the Marine Corps Hearing Conservation Program is to prevent Marine Corps personnel from suffering occupational hearing loss due to noise exposure and ensure auditory fitness for duty in the Marine and civilian workforce. Hearing protective devices shall be worn by all personnel when they enter or work in an area where the operations generate noise levels of

1. Greater than 84 dBA (8 hour TWA) sound level (continuous).
2. 140 dB peak sound pressure level or greater (impact or impulse).
3. In areas where noise levels exceed 104 dBA (8 hour TWA) a combination of circumaural hearing protective devices in conjunction with a second type of protective device (double protection) shall be worn.

For more information call (760) 830-6720 or DSN 230-6720.

LINKS
Naval Safety Center
Defense Ammunition Center Training

The Laser Safety Specialist (LSS) has guidance in program areas such as LASER and radio-frequency (RF) emitters. The LSS must successful complete the ALA/LNTL-approved LSS course and is qualified to perform the calculations and measurements of laser safety parameters such as NOHDs and required optical densities for laser eyewear. 

For more information call (760) 830-5065 or DSN 230-5065.

Qualifications of instructors requires ALA/LNTL approval

LASER OPERATOR/RANGE SAFETY/MAINTENANCE COURSES

LASER SAFETY COMPLIANCE INSPECTIONS

RF RADIATION SURVEYS AND BASELINES

IONIZING RADIOLOGICAL WIPE TESTING

The Marine Corps has established strict controls to limit both occupational and environmental exposures to lead. This is due to the serious health hazards associated with lead and the numerous sources of potential lead exposures. Warning signs and caution labels shall be posted in each location where airborne lead may exceed the PEL which is 50 ug/m3 as an eight hour TWA. Personnel working with lead shall

1. Comply with work control procedures.
2. Properly wear or use the prescribed PPE.
3. Report to their supervisor any unsafe work conditions.
4. Ensure they have received the proper medical examinations as required.

For more information call (760) 830-6154 or DSN 230-6154.

ORDERS
MCO5100.29_
40 CFR 745
29 CFR 1910
20 CFR 1960

All equipment and machinery shall be locked out or tagged out to protect against accidental, inadvertent start-up, or operation that may cause injury to personnel performing maintenance, service, repair, or modifications to machinery or equipment. The lockout/tagout program ensures Marine Corps personnel are protected from injury during any servicing or maintenance done on machinery or equipment, where unexpected energization, start-up or release of any type of energy (e.g., electricity, steam, hydraulic, pneumatic, gravity) could occur. Anyone attempting operating or attempting to operate any switch, valve, or other energy isolating device which is locked or tagged out may be subject to disciplinary action.

For more information call (760) 830-4752 or DSN 230-4752.

Mishaps must be reported. Your unit safety manager is trained on mishap investigation and reporting. Your Base Safety Office or the Naval Safety Center can assist.

The purpose of the Marine Corps Ground Mishap Reporting Program (MCGMRP) is mishap prevention. Plainly and simply, because mishaps are caused and do not just happen, they can be prevented. The ideal behavior is to identify and eliminate hazards before they cause a mishap. But when a mishap does occur it means something has failed and must be investigated and reported.

The investigation procedures, reports, and records required by MCO 5102.1_ will assist you in determining what failed and what adjustments may be necessary to prevent similar mishaps. Mishap investigation and reporting procedures can and will be long, complicated, and most likely confusing procedures depending on the mishap. With assistance and guidance from the Chain of Command and MARFORPAC, it might not be too complicated. Don't be afraid to ask for help. The Naval Safety Center will send assistance to you at no cost to the command.

Helpful Tips

• Ask to review your mishap logs. Are they up to date?
• Is there a separate mishap log for Active Duty and civilian personnel?
• Does your unit safety manager receive mishap reports within 24 hours?
• Is your unit safety manager in the loop when mishap investigations are required? Too many times the Commanding Officer attempts to complete the Legal investigation and overlooks the safety investigation.
• Is the Commanding Officer aware that safety investigations are separate from SJA investigation. Note: Nothing in the Safety Investigation will be turned over to legal.
• Make sure the CO does not assign the safety manager to a SJA investigation where a mishap is involved.
• See Flash Report and review Force Order 5101.1_ on using this report.
• Contact MFR Ground Safety for further details on mishap investigations and reporting. See MCO 5102.1_ for details.

Applicability: all units.
Details: Few mishaps require major investigation and reporting. Most of the mishaps are reported with just a phone call and a flash report but when any mishap occurs, immediate investigation is necessary to determine how the mishap should be reported. First find out what happened. Do not wait to talk to people involved in the mishap. Get the information from them while it is still fresh in their minds. With this information you can possibly determine the course of action and take it from there. Always use MCO 5102.1_.

Look for the answers to these vital questions:

• WHO was injured?
• WHAT were the material, machines, or equipment involved?
• WHERE did it happen?
• WHEN did it happen?
• HOW did it happen?
• WHY did it happen?

Flash Report
Upon notification of a Ground Mishap, fill out the Flash Report (by block #) as follows.

1. Time: The time you receive the call.
2. Date: The date you receive the call.
3. P.O.C.: The person who is calling or the person with the most information.
4. Phone: The phone number where the P.O.C. can be reached.
5. The title of the unit.
6. Unit Location: The physical location.
7. Type of Mishap: One of the following
   • On - Duty - Industrial, Government Motor Vehicle, Military Training or Other on duty.
   • Off - Duty -Private Motor Vehicle, Sports/Recreation, Other off duty.
8. Time/Date of Mishap: The time and date when the mishap occurred.
9. Location of Mishap: Address, Bldg. #, Road, be specific.
10. Info of Injured and/or Involved:
    • Name
    • Rank
    • SSN
    • Age (if known)
    • MOS (if known)
    • Component (Active Duty or SMCR)
    • Nature of injury: (i.e.. Fatality, Heart Attack, Broken Arm, etc.)
11. Circumstances Surrounding Mishap: Collect and record as much information as you can. Use back of form or additional paper if necessary.
12. Print and sign your name at the bottom.

Accident Investigations: initial investigation

1. Get to the scene of the mishap ASAP! Immediate on-the-scene investigation always provides the most accurate and useful information. Any delay may permit important evidence to be destroyed or moved. As an investigator, you must be information hungry. Be extremely observant. Take accurate notes.
2. Talk to witnesses and get initial statements from them. Talk to the witnesses separately. This way you get their recount of the events without someone telling what they saw.
3. Take photographs, make drawings, measurements etc.
4. Report your initial findings/information to the Safety Officer or Commanding Officers/Inspector-Instructor. Also inquire about who will be on the Ground Mishap Review Board (GMRB). Refer to MCO P5102.1_, Chapter 5. Be ready to type the appointment letters.
5. As soon as possible, contact the injured Marine for his statement of what happened but be sure he is well enough and rational enough (medication) to answer questions. In serious injury cases ALWAYS clear this with the attending medical authorities. Do nothing to aggravate the Marine's condition.

Safety Investigation: (MCO P5102.1_ Chapter 3)

You have 30 days to investigate and report your findings. Extensions may be granted under certain circumstances. Should it become evident that the deadline cannot be met, the investigating commander shall request a deadline extension from CMC (SD) by message and ensuring all appropriate addresses are included.

Requests shall describe the specific reasons for delay. Reasons such as "Administrative Delay" or "Investigative Delay" are not sufficient. Be specific. Refer to MCO P5102.1_, Chapter 4, paragraph 4202.

When investigating a mishap become familiar with the following subjects listed in Chapter 3.

• Mishap investigation responsibilities: CO, Multiple commands, En route to new duty station, Remote areas, Unclear cases regarding responsibilities.
• Independence of safety investigations: Separate from a JAG investigation. Note: Safety managers are never to participate in a JAG investigation unless they are the ones being investigated.
  • Scope of investigations: complexity, Marine Corps Operations, severity, potential for recurrence, investigations by other agencies.
  • Safety investigators
  • Collection of evidence
  • Investigative evidence: access to M.C. materials, human factors investigation, photographic evidence, witnesses and statements.
  • Analysis of evidence: analysis, personnel factors, material failure/malfunction, facilities conclusions, causal factors, environment, recommendations.

Witness Statements

The accounts of witnesses often provide important, and at times, the only leads as to the cause factors of the mishap. The following apply to witness statements:

• Witnesses shall not be administered truth serums, drugs, hypnotic techniques or polygraph tests. If the statement is given while the witness is on medication, a notation indicating the type of medication will be made to the documentation.
• Witnesses do not testify under oath and are not sworn.
• Witness shall be advised that the main purpose of the safety investigation is to determine all factors relating to the mishap in order to prevent similar mishaps.
• Advice to witnesses about their voluntary disclosure of information differs on whether the investigation will result in a "Limited Use Mishap Investigation Report" or a "General Use Mishap Investigation Report". Hopefully, mishap will be a General Use Mishap Investigation Report and the Privacy Act Disclosure Statement on Pg. 3-11 will apply. Have the witness sign and date this form stating that they understand.

Motorcycling is a popular means of transportation. Many riders commute to work, while others ride for recreation. Regardless of the reasons, motorcycling is an enjoyable means of transportation, but not without some inherent risks. Motorcycles and their riders are more vulnerable than cars and their drivers. Motorcycles aren’t as stable as a four-wheel vehicle. Because of these and other factors riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, especially without some form of formal training.

To reduce the number of motorcycle related crashes and casualties, the Marine Corps offers several Motorcycle safety Foundation riding courses for a variety of skill levels.

All military motorcyclists aboard DoD installations must successfully complete a recognized motorcycle safety course. To register for a course, individuals must go to their motorcycle president or their 3 shop and sign up through Enterprise Safety Applications Management System (ESAMS).  In addition, military members under the age of 26 must present a valid Driver Improvement card to qualify for any of the courses.

All participants that have their own street legal, insured and registered motorcycle will use it for the course. Loaner bikes are available on a limited basis. Also proper Personal Protective Equipment (DOT Helmet, long pants, full fingered gloves, boots, long sleeved shirt or jacket) are required to take the course. Helmets and gloves are provided for those that require it for the course. 

For more information call (760) 830-6154 or email the Traffic Safety/ Motorcycle Program Manager.

Courses Available

Basic Rider Course (BRC)
The primary goal is to provide an introduction to the fundamentals of safe, responsible motorcycling. The course is designed to prepare riders for entry into the world of motorcycling. Upon successfully completing the course the rider will be able to acquire a motorcycle license or endorsement without completing the “riding” portion of the DMV test (in most states). The California approved course, Motorcycle Training Course (MTC) is not offered aboard the installation. If an individual already possesses a motorcycle endorsement, that qualifies as level one training. Civilians and spouses are encouraged to attend as well. Those with a California Driver’s License wanting a motorcycle endorsement, contact your S-3 or Traffic Safety/Motorcycle Program Manager at (760) 830-6154.

Basic Rider Course (BRC) requirements
All active duty personnel must take the BRC regardless if they wish to ride on or off base. The Basic Rider Course is designed for all street legal motorcycles and not specific to any make, year or model. The rider must possess current registration and insurance for their motorcycle. A Department of Motor Vehicles permit is not necessary but would be helpful when attending the course.

The Basic Rider Course is a three day evolution that takes a novice rider from basic riding skills to advanced turning and braking and swerving techniques. The rider will spend one five hour day in the classroom and two five hour days on the range. The classroom portion familiarizes the rider with the skills that will be introduced on the range using group and individual adult learning. And the range portions help the rider become more proficient with the skills and help them gain confidence in their abilities through repetition and professional coaching.

BRC Course Length is three (3) days with one day classroom, two days riding. The course is offered three times per month.

Advanced Riders Course (ARC)
Designed specifically for experienced motorcyclists that have either completed the BRC, or possess a motorcycle endorsement. Special emphasis is given to self-assessment, rider behavior, riding strategies, and overall skill development. Braking, cornering and swerving are some other aspects where special emphasis is given. The ARC is MANDATORY for licensed military riders. Civilians and spouses are encouraged to attend as well.

Course Length: One (1) Day.

ARC requirements.
Any military member that rides bike on or off this military installation must complete the ARC. A rider is eligible to attend the ARC only if they have completed a BRC or possess a motorcycle endorsement. An ARC rider student should have a high level on confidence in their riding abilities. They should have continuous saddle time and have a firm grasp of the basics as this is a next level of training. Individuals are required to take the ARC within 180 days of BRC completion. 

All Terrain Vehicle Course (ATV)
Designed for a novice ATV rider. This 4 hour course begins with fundamentals and riding positions and takes the rider from basic riding techniques and graduates to trail riding concepts. The ATV course is available to all Marines, Sailors, DoD Civilians or military family members. Although no longer required, it is highly recommended.

The ATV course is offered on an as needed basis. Usually once per month.

Dirt Bike School (DBS)
Designed for a novice dirt bike rider. This 4 hour course begins with fundamentals and riding positions and takes the rider from basic riding techniques and graduates to trail riding concepts. The Dirt Bike School is available to all Marines, Sailors, DoD Civilians or military family members. Although no longer required, it is highly recommended.

The DBS is offered on an as needed basis. Usually once per month.

ORDERS
MCO 5100.29_

LINKS
ESAMS Login
Motorcycle Safety Foundation

The Marine Corps has conducted safety and health programs for many years. They are designed to ensure that all Marine Corps commands provide a safe and healthful workplace for all personnel through an aggressive and comprehensive OSH program via the appropriate chain of command.

For more information call (760) 830-6720 or DSN 230-6720.

Injuries incurred via sports and recreational activities, both on and off duty, continue to account for a source of fatalities, hospitalizations, lost-time injuries and injuries leading to limited assignments in the Marine Corp. Because of this, the off-duty and recreational safety program has been developed to help minimize risks through inspections, training, and an aggressive awareness campaign.

For more information call (760) 830-6154 or DSN 230-6154.

PRESENTATIONS

Home Safety
RADON Safety (ppt)

Hunting
Hunting on base is prohibited as per the Environmental Protection Order CCO 5090.1_.

Off-Duty/Recreation Safety ORM
Safety Risk Assessment worksheet (pdf)
Under Age Drinking (ppt)

Safety Inspection Checklist
Safety Office Safety Checklist (doc)
Safety User Monthly Inspection Checklist (doc)

Safety Stand Down
Off Duty and Recreation Safety (ppt)

Sports
Heat injury (ppt)
Operational Heat Injuries (ppt)

Orders
MCO 5100.29_
CCO 5090.1_

Links
US Navy Safety Center
USMC Safety Division
Consumer Product Safety Commission
JRAT Safety

What is Operational Risk Management? ORM is a decision making tool by people at all levels to increase operational effectiveness by anticipating hazards and reducing the potential for loss, thereby increasing the probability of a successful mission. ORM is an effective tool for maintaining readiness in peacetime and success in combat because it helps conserve assets so they can be applied at the decisive time and place. ORM is not just an S-3 or S-4 shop function. Small unit leaders and individual Marines make risk decisions everyday, and need to know how to manage risks. Force reductions make every Marine and piece of equipment more critical to mission success.

ORM process is proven to be mission supportive. Moral responsibility to protect our Marines. ORM is a closed loop process of identifying and controlling hazards. It follows a 5-step sequence, is applied on one of three levels depending on the situation, and is guided by 4 principles. The purpose of ORM is to minimize risks to acceptable levels, proportional to mission accomplishment and to manage risk so the mission can be accomplished with the minimum amount of loss.

Applying the ORM process will reduce mishaps, lower injury and property damage costs, provide for more effective use of resources, improve training realism and effectiveness, and improve readiness. The ORM concept grew out of ideas originally developed to improve safety in the development of new weapons, aircraft and space vehicles, and nuclear power. The US Army adopted Risk Management in 1991 to reduce training and combat losses.

ALMAR 210/97 states, "Our goal is to institutionalize the ORM process so that all Marines apply it-as a matter of course-in their planning, training and operations. To that end, commanders shall incorporate ORM into their operational routines. This includes regular use of the process for crisis action and exercise planning, clear guidance in the commander's intent on the level of acceptable risk, and discussion of risk assessment and controls at decision briefs."

MCO 5100.29_ makes ORM an integral part of planning, training, and operations for Marine Corps units. Commander's are required to designate ORM instructors with his or her command. Instructor certification can be accomplished by completing the four online distance learning courses located on Marinenet.

Orders
MCO 5100.29_

Links
MCI ORM Guide

The issue, maintenance, and use of Personal Protective equipment (PPE) is necessary for protecting Marine Corps personnel and hobby shop patrons when engineering and administrative controls are not available or effective. Appropriate PPE shall be and used for emergencies such as hazardous materials spills (including biohazards), hazardous materials cleanup operations, ventilation malfunctions, emergency egress, and damage control activities.

For more information call (760) 830-5008 or DSN 230-5008.

Marine Corps personnel working in areas where they may be exposed to harmful levels of airborne dust, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors shall be provided appropriate respiratory protection, per guidelines of industrial hygienist at government expense. The objectives of this program are to safeguard the health of Marine Corps personnel from respiratory hazards by use or respirators and provide written guidelines as required.

For more information call (760) 830-8467 or DSN 230-8467.