Health and Wellness in the Workplace

From your EAP-Employee Assistance Program 3/2005
Web site: www.mich-up-eap.org

"Praise in public, criticize in private" is a basic rule for managing people effectively.
Disrespect just makes more disrespect. Treat people with dignity and get results.

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There have been several incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in the last few weeks in schools and stores.

Some signs to watch out for:

Headache

Vomiting

Lips and fingernails turn bright red

Low energy

Increased chest pain

Weakness and confusion

Sleepiness and tiredness

At very high levels it can cause loss of consciousness and eventually death.

To reduce exposure, made sure gas appliances are operating properly; open flues when using fireplaces; have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up central heating systems annually. Repair any leaks promptly. Do not idle a car inside the garage. Make sure your tailpipe is not blocked with snow. Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms. Be careful with propane or gas powered appliances in enclosed spaces.

There have been reports of carbon monoxide poisoning with houseboats, when the generator is running and people are at or near the back of the boat by the exhaust. Several people have died doing "body surfing" or "teak surfing" off the back of power boats or ski boats, where the exhaust fumes from the boat engine are the highest. Carbon Monoxide poisoning can occur and result in mental disorientation, dizziness, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness. This combination of carbon monoxide and exposure and non-use of a life jacket make this new water recreation activity an incredibly dangerous and potentially deadly sport.

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When you are right, don't gloat. The only time you should ever use the phrase "I told you so" is if someone says to you: "You were right. I really could succeed at that project".

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers safety tips for children ages 5 to 14 who play baseball and softball:

Pitchers should limit throws to 90 per outing and 200 per week.

Mild muscle soreness after a few days of training is normal. Severe or chronic pain, particularly in the arm or shoulder, may be a sign of overuse or injury.

Protective equipment should be used. Baseball is the leading cause of sports-related eye injuries in children. Use softer balls for young children. Catchers need chest protection and helmets with safety goggles attached. All players should wear helmets when batting or running bases.

Outfielders should also wear goggles. Children under 10 should not slide head - first into bases. This can cause serious neck injuries.

Signs of Steroid Abuse

Signs of Abuse:

* mood swings

* suicidal thoughts or attempts

* restlessness

* fatigue, sleeplessness

* loss of appetite

* changes in physical appearance

* in males

quick and large muscle gains

aggressive behavior and violent temper

severe acne on shoulders, neck, and face

premature balding

abnormal breath

* in females

deeper voice

increase in body hair

smaller breasts

fewer menstrual cycles

Some risks from taking steroids include heart problems and the increased risk of getting AIDS or Hepatitis from sharing needles in people that take injectable steroids.

Improve your odds!

Nearly 90 out of 100 heart attacks are caused by risk factors that you can do something about, including:

smoking

unhealthy cholesterol levels

high blood pressure

diabetes

abdominal obesity (waist size over 40" for men, more than 35" for women)

stress

not eating enough fruits and vegetables

not getting enough daily exercise

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