On November 8th, 2023, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics released its annual report on workplace injuries. Private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023. This report underscores the importance of preparing for workplace challenges, especially during the winter when injuries rise due to cold, winter weather, and slippery surfaces. Gulf Coast winters bring extreme temperature fluctuations, sudden cold snaps, heavy rain, and high humidity. High-quality personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety supplies protect against the various hazards these conditions present. Ensure your oil and gas workers have these items on hand to keep them safe and productive. Insulated and Weatherproof Jackets Sudden drops in temperature or prolonged exposure to cooler temperatures can impair a worker’s focus, dexterity, and reaction time. Thermal insulation maintains body warmth while waterproof coatings protect against rain and damp conditions. These prevent discomfort and the risks associated with wet clothing, such as hypothermia or reduced mobility. If your workers are often near heavy machinery or fleet vehicles, consider looking for high-visibility jackets with ANSI-compliant reflective strips. They are designed to remain effective even in wet or overcast weather. Workspace-Specific Insulated Gloves Choose gloves that combine the features your workers need in their tasks. You may need gloves suitable for different responsibilities or areas of the workplace. Some features to consider include: Chemical-resistant gloves protect against hazardous materials like acids and solvents. Insulation keeps hands warm, preventing cold-related injuries that impair grip and coordination. These are essential for workers who will work outdoors or in cold indoor areas for extended periods of time. Shock insulation is good for those who work near machinery and electrical components. Anti-vibration gloves reduce the harmful effects of vibration on hands and arms while using power tools or machinery. Cut resistance protects against sharp objects when at work. Good cut protection is considered anything rated A3 and lower. Flexible designs ensure dexterity for precision tasks like repairs and maintenance. Choosing the right gloves will help keep your workers safe from winter weather and the unique challenges of their workplace. High-Traction, Insulated Boots Even without rain or sleet, temperatures can dip low enough to freeze dew and condensation, creating near-invisible slippery surfaces. Boots should feature slip-resistant soles with high traction scores, designed to grip wet, oily, or icy surfaces. Look for acid- and chemical-resistant materials in boot construction to prevent damage and ensure durability in harsh environments. Reinforced-toe options can protect workers from falling objects and other hazards. Insulation prevents cold-related numbness that can affect balance and safety. Hand Sanitizer for Workplace Hygiene and Safety In colder months, workers may be less inclined to wash their hands regularly due to limited access to warm water at job sites. Hand sanitizer provides a convenient alternative to reduce the spread of germs and maintain cleanliness. Choose sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol for maximum effectiveness against bacteria and viruses. Non-greasy formulas are ideal to avoid slippery hands when using tools or operating equipment. Station hand sanitizer dispensers near fleet vehicles, tool storage areas, and break rooms to encourage frequent use without disrupting workflows. Essential Items for First Aid Kits to Treat Cold-Related Injuries Cold-related injuries are rare but possible during Gulf Coast winters, especially when workers are exposed to wet and chilly conditions for extended periods. Make sure your first aid kits are equipped for these during the winter months. Thermal Blankets . Compact, heat-reflective blankets provide immediate warmth to prevent or treat hypothermia in exposed workers. Heat Packs . Disposable or reusable heat packs help warm extremities like fingers and toes. Frostbite Cream or Gel . Specialized treatments for frostbite help minimize damage while waiting for professional medical attention. Cold Weather Bandages . Adhesive bandages that stick even in cold or damp conditions will help protect cuts and scrapes. Extra tape and flexible gauze rolls are also recommended in case of slips and falls. Regularly inspect and replenish first aid kits to ensure all items are in good condition and ready for use. Fire Extinguishers for Heated Areas Indoor and outdoor heating equipment increases fire risk during the colder months. Having the right extinguisher in the right place can make a huge difference in the severity of a fire incident. Ensure extinguishers are rated for the types of fires common in heated areas. They fall under five classifications based on the type of fire they are best suited for. Class A for non-metallic materials like wood, paper, cloth, trash, and plastics Class B for flammable liquids like gasoline and oils. Class C for electrical fires, often caused by space heaters or malfunctioning equipment. Class D for Metal fires involving magnesium, sodium, potassium, and sodium-potassium alloys Class K for fires involving cooking oils and deep fryers. Position fire extinguishers within easy reach of heaters, furnaces, or other fire hazards to ensure workers and responders can react quickly in an emergency. Action Supply Provides High-Quality PPE Gear to Fit Your Needs We are uniquely positioned to assess your safety concerns and ensure you have the right safety equipment for the job. Contact us today to see how we can help you reduce winter workplace injuries with the right PPE gear.

Despite the growing interest in Electronic Braking Systems (EBS), Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) continue to be the preferred choice for heavy-duty trucks due to their reliability. Here are some common mistakes made during air brake system inspections and adjustments with tips on how to Neglecting Regular Inspections Regular inspections are critical to detect wear and tear before they become costly breakdowns. Procrastinating on this critical task can lead to accidents, injuries, and other risks. You should visually inspect the air brake system every three months and more thoroughly on a schedule according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Plan for extra visual inspections if your fleet is exposed to extreme weather, severe temperatures, or other environmental hazards. Improper Adjustment of Brake Components Improper adjustments can occur due to a lack of understanding of the correct adjustment procedures or the use of incorrect tools. For example, an imperfect slack adjuster can lead to excessive brake shoe wear or inadequate braking force. Make sure your crew follows the manufacturer's guidelines and uses the right tools for adjustments and repairs. A minute saved with a rushed job can cost many days' worth of issues later. Ignoring Manufacturer Specifications Each brake system has specific manufacturer specifications and guidelines. Doing things like using incorrect brake linings or failing to maintain the recommended air pressure can lead to decreased performance and increased risk of brake failure. Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual and adhere to the specified maintenance practices.If you are unsure if a substitute part will work for your fleet vehicle, contact hardware supply experts to discuss your options. Failing to Check Supporting Hoses and Valves Air leaks in the brake system can severely affect braking performance. Common areas where leaks might occur include the air hoses, valves, and connections. During inspections make sure to: Check for cracks, bulges, and other deformities in the hoses Gently pinch the hoses to check for blisters and soft spots that indicate internal damage Check joints, valves, and connectors for signs of corrosion and loose connections Take care that all tubes and parts are clean during repairs and replacements. Any debris that makes its way in is not likely to come back out If you suspect a leak, cover the hose with soapy water and look for bubbles. Replace any faulty parts early on to avoid more costly repairs later. A customized inventory management service can help you avoid long back orders and delays. Overlooking the Air Dryer and Filters The air dryer and filters play a critical role in maintaining the quality of the air within the brake system. Moisture and contaminants in the air can cause corrosion and damage to the brake components, especially in humid areas like the Gulf Coast. The staff of Fleet Magazine recommend, “Drivers and fleets should always monitor the quality of the air in their service tanks to ensure air dryers are functioning properly. If excessive moisture—or oil mixed with water—is present in an air system, the air dryer’s cartridge may need to be replaced.” Regularly checking and replacing the air dryer cartridge and filters can prevent moisture buildup and ensure the longevity of the brake system. Refer to the manufacturer’s appropriate data sheet for the best intervals.  Let Action Supply Help You Maintain Your Fleet Whether you need the gold standards in fleet maintenance parts or robust inventory management, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality customer care. Our inventory experts will work hard, earn your trust, and help you get the job done right. Contact us today to discuss your fleet maintenance needs.