Safety First....
The latest issue of Hardwood Floors Magazine ran a safety article, Stay Safe, which told several stories of the dangers that exist for floor finishers. Two of the stories told were of my sinus cancer and Greg Dunican's near electrocution on the job. Other stories regarded hearing loss, cut digits and fires. I suggest that everyone read this article.

Some of these dangers are avoidable by understanding the potential dangers of particular products like lacquer sealers or equipment such as saws. Protection can be used to head off many of these dangers. Respirators, dust masks, knee pads, eye protection, hearing protectors, rubber gloves and back supports are safety items that are readily available and inexpensive.

Most of this protection has been available since the 1970's and 80's but many of our peers still don't use them sufficiently. Knowledge is power. Understanding what can hurt us is half the battle.

Those of us who have been at this for 30 years or more did not have the advantage of the protective equipment we have today. When I started in 1953 none of this was available and worse was the fact that my father and uncles, who taught me, started in the late 20's and my grandfather, who taught them, saw no dangers. This was how they earned a living. Not an excuse for not being protected but a reason.

I urge all of our peers to take these stories to heart and protect yourself whenever and wherever you can. Talk to your distributor regarding gear that is available.

Thanks for taking care of yourself and your family.

Bill