President: Annette Britton-Cordero Newsletter Editor: Annette Britton Cordero Sept , 2005
Welcome Back from our Summer Break:
P r r e e s s i i d e e n t t ’ ’ s s M e e s s s s a g e e
I hope that all of you had some down time during the summer months and were able to do what ever it is that recharges or revitalizes you. Our Family visited Saint Louis Mo, “The Gateway to the west” . The boys really enjoyed all the history of the Mississippi River, the breathtaking view from the Arch, and of course the animals at the world famous St. Louis Zoo.
As we just celebrated Labor Day I gave a lot of though to how diverse and complex our worker populations have become. On any given day we are called to provide, plan, or direct interventions in the areas of : health promotion, disability case management, risk assessment of work place hazards, emergency preparedness in response to natural, technological or human hazards, counseling and crisis intervention, legal and regulatory compliance and of course demonstrating an improvement to the Bottom Line of our businesses.
The SCAOHN board was busy working on your behalf during the summer so that we can continue to be the vital link to your profession as an OHN.
We are committed to serving the members of SCAOHN through our educational programs, increasing and retaining membership, offering new communication vehicles, and managing our financial resources.
Some of the summer work include:
 Revision of our By-Laws


Ballot was completed and sent out
05-06 Strategic Plan reviewed and revised
 Contracted with PrimaWebsites for the SCAOHN website.
We are fortunate to have such active representation from our members at both the local chapter at the state level. Please show your support by completing both local and state ballots!
I look forward to seeing you at our September meeting which promises to be another great CE offering.
The Speaker is our own Joan Rigdon, and will be sponsored by Saint Joseph Occupational Health Center.
See you on the 21 st – We will be raffling the registration fee for the CA State Occupational Health Nurse
Conference in November to one lucky member in attendance!
--Annette Britton Cordero--
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

PRESIDENT:
Annette Britton Cordero 818-898-4444
VICE PRESIDENT:
Gail King
TREASURER:
Pamela Harbor-Cannon
SECRETARY:
Donna Workman-Malcolm
BOARD MEMBERS:
Governmental Affairs:
818-954-4419
323-671-5223
213-207-2178
Joan Rigdon
Member Services:
626-441-4914
Annette Pool
Professional Affairs/Education:
661-722-1945
626-229-8999 Ellie Elliott
Directors:
Jeanne Schaeffer
Bud Bednarski
Past President:
Rachelle Rolshoven
818-902-5149
323-654-0704
818-587-4468
Annette Britton Cordero (Editor)
Article Contributors:
Pamela Harbor-Cannon
Joan Rigdon
Donna Workman-Malcolm
For comments / suggestions/ corrections / ads
Please contact Rachelle Rolshoven at:
Rachelle.Rolshoven@yoh.com
818-587-4468
OCC-N-TALK September 2005
During our Board meeting this August we discussed the following items:
 The revision of the by-laws has been completed and will be returned to AAOHN for final review. The changes made were those needed to bring us in line with the current need to operate as a chapter and as a board.
 The ballot was completed
 The 2006 Strategic plan was reviewed and updated. Copies will be available at the Sept Meeting.
 Two SCAOHN members will be attending COL in Tampa Florida
 We have increased our membership to 92 and our mailing list is growing. This is great news and we all need to make an effort to let our new members feel welcome and to attend our meetings.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Prepared by Pam Harbor-Cannon, Treasurer
RETAINED EARNINGS 1/1/05
INCOME YTD
EXPENSES YTD
$ 18,406.76
$ 7,182.00
$ 6,721.05
NET GAIN (LOSS)
RETAINED EARNINGS 6/1/05
$ 460.95
$ 18,867.71

Submitted by Joan Rigdon Director Governmental Affairs
By a unanimous vote, California voted in the first standard of any kind in the U.S. to protect workers from heat illnesses. This standard goes into effect 10 days after its passage on August 12, 2005. This emergency regulation will be effective for 120 days. The action was taken in response to an unprecedented number of deaths this year during a prolonged heat wave.
Four critical areas are covered:
 Access to adequate supplies of cool water
 Shade for workers who are on the verge of becoming ill or already have started to feel the effects of heat illness
 Training on critical elements of heat illness prevention
 A requirement for the Standards Board to review the feasibility of requiring shade for all rest periods
By December 1, 2005, the Occupational Safety and Health Board will be required to adopt a standard for heat illness prevention. Hopefully if the elements of the standard remain intact during the drafting of the bill; the employer would be required to develop a system where employees at risk for heat-related illness would not work alone. It would provide time for the worker to acclimatize to the heat and provide heat-illness training. In addition it would provide shaded rest areas and hourly breaks during heat waves.
Opponents of the bill cite the “Safe and Healthful Workplace” clause as drafted in the
Cal/OSHA Act of 1973. They feel they are sufficient enough for employers to develop workplace protections. Organizations opposing this bill:
California Chamber of Commerce
Construction Employers’ Association
The California Manufactures and Technology Association
Supporters of the bill cite the “tragic consequences” such as brain injury, kidney failure or death that can result from heat stress and illness. They state that the current injury and illness protection plan is not sufficient to address this issue
Supporters include:
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO
California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation (Sponsor)
Garment Workers Center
California Conference Board of Amalgamated Transit Union
California Conference of Machinists
If you want additional information or want to view the actual proposed standard go and see educational materials go to ; http://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/HeatIllnessInfo.html
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

Submitted By Donna Workman-Malcolm
About Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac Reactions
Poison ivy, oak and sumac reactions are triggered by the body's allergic response to urushiol, whereby the immune system attacks the skin containing the oil, producing symptoms such as rashes, oozing blisters, itching and swelling. The allergic response occurs anywhere from 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the oil and can take as long as 10 days to several weeks to heal.
As the nation's firefighters battle blazes during the height of this summer's wildfire season, few know that an equal danger lurks underfoot. According to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), nearly one-third of USFS firefighters are forced to leave the line during a fire because of rashes caused by poison ivy or poison oak.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are the most common cause of allergic reactions in the United States, noting that each year 10 million to 50 million
Americans develop an allergic rash after contact with these poisonous plants. Burning branches or logs that carry even a small amount of urushiol, the toxin carried in poison ivy, oak and sumac plants, can cause people to suffer from systemic reactions and/or respiratory attacks. The inhalation of the toxic urushiol can enter the lungs and/or blood stream and cause internal blistering and other related health risks. Firefighters and smokejumpers are especially susceptible as they battle blazes in wooded areas with a high density of poison oak, ivy and sumac.
"Reactions to poison ivy, oak and sumac are recognized within the industry as one of the top causes of disability and lost work time for firefighters," said Robyn Benincasa, a San Diego firefighter and worldrenowned adventure racer. "It is important to become educated about how to recognize the plants and do everything possible to minimize the chances of inhaling the toxic urushiol vapors."
Zanfel Laboratories Inc., manufacturer of Zanfel TM Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac Wash, recommends the following tips to firefighters and smokejumpers to avoid exposure to these toxic plants and to treat the outbreak if it does occur:
How Firefighters Can Avoid Contact with Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac
 Suit-Up: As you head outdoors, wear protective clothing containing neoprene or polyurethane to prevent the poisonous oils from touching your skin.
 Wear Gloves: Wear thick gloves when handling equipment. Urushiol can bind to rubber hoses, tools and most pieces of equipment. Note: Urushiol can still penetrate rubber gloves.
 Watch Where Animals Wander: Animals do not react to poison oak, ivy and sumac toxin, but rescued animals can easily carry urushiol and contaminate you and your team.
 Wear a Mask: Even though smoke may not be visibly present, urushiol can be carried on tiny particles of ash and dust and may remain in the air from a recent fire. Wash-Up: To avoid contamination to poison oak, ivy or sumac, wash all equipment, gloves and exterior clothing immediately with soap and water.
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

If You Think You Have Been Exposed to Poison Oak, Ivy or Sumac


Cleanse: Immediately cleanse the area with plain soap and water. Urushiol will bind to the skin anywhere from five minutes to two hours after exposure.
Relief: Treat the origin of the reaction, not just the symptoms or reaction to the exposure.
 Decontaminate: Remove and wash all gloves, clothes, shoes and shoelaces, and equipment that may have come in contact with the toxic plants.
 Don't Scratch! While scratching does not spread the outbreak, it may cause infection because it allows bacteria from dirt on the hands to enter the skin.
 Seek Medical Attention: Firefighters who suspect they have been exposed to smoke containing poison oak, ivy or sumac, or those whose topical symptoms persist and/or for whom the rash has spread to the mouth or eyes, should seek medical attention immediately.
Other Tips
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, tucked into boots. Wear cloth or leather gloves.


Apply barrier creams to exposed skin.
Educate workers on the identification of poison ivy, oak and sumac plants.


Educate workers on signs and symptoms of contact with poisonous ivy, oak and sumac.
Keep rubbing alcohol accessible. It removes the oily resin up to 30 minutes after exposure.
Here's additional tips from OSHA ( http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/sawmills/poison.html
)
Southern California Education and Research Center
Continuing Education/Outreach
Reserve your space now!
Risk Communication :
Risk communication is part of the science of risk assessment and the process of risk management.
This course is designed to assist those responsible for environmental, health, or safety issues effectively communicate risk information to employees, community members, and the media. You will gain an understanding of how risk is perceived and learn the best approaches to communicating risk.
Hazard Communication for Supervisors
Topics (addressing the requirements of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard) include:
Which employers and types of substances are subject to regulation, what is exempt?
How can responsible parties determine which specific substances are hazardous?
What are Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) -- what categories must they include; how can this information be used to educate employees on the hazards of chemicals?
What are the requirements of a Written Hazard Communication Program?
For information and a brochure Contact Cass at 310 206-2304 or erc@ph.ucla.edu
Brochures will also be available at the Sept Meeting
INCOME YTD
EXPENSES YTD
$ 7,182.00
$ 6,721.05

Volunteer Opportunities
Prepared by: Pam Harbor-Cannon
UCLA Center on Aging needs volunteers to teach a 10-hour memory training course at local venues. Ten hours of training is required. Information: (310) 794-0676.
Glendale Memorial Hospital needs volunteers for various activities. Information (818) 502-2373.
Women Helping Children needs volunteers for the Light Up a Library and Arts Bridges Culture programs serving elementary schoolchildren and for the Teen Tutoring Program. Information: (323) 852-8512.
San Fernando Valley Counseling Center in Northridge needs volunteers to train as paraprofessional counselors.
Information: (818) 341-1111.
The Wonder of Reading needs volunteers to read one-on-one with Los Angeles-area elementary school children who are struggling readers. Spanish speakers are urged to apply. Information: (310) 289-1201 or visit www.wonderofreading.org.
Wheels for Humanity, a North Hollywood organization that refurbishes used wheelchairs for children and adults in developing countries, needs volunteers to work in its warehouse and offices. Information: Michael Allen, (818) 255-0100,
Ext. 232.
Dear Colleagues, from AAOHN
The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN) is greatly concerned about the consequences and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast that has led to loss of life, loss of homes, loss of jobs, and widespread destruction that will take months to years to repair. The public health and occupational health implications are enormous. We realize that many members and their families, businesses, and communities are deeply affected by this natural disaster, and we extend our sympathies, prayers, and support to you.
As in any disaster, help and support is always needed. What can you do?
1.
Make cash contributions to the American Red Cross or other agencies that are providing direct humanitarian aid to victims. The best way to help is by making an online contribution to the Disaster Relief Fund at http://www.redcross.org
.
2.
If you have special disaster training, consider volunteering to help provide care to victims, especially in those areas providing comfort to victims (Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, etc.). For the moment, FEMA has stated that volunteers should not report directly to the affected areas unless directed by a voluntary agency.
3.
Offer counseling to employees who may have family members living in the area.
4.
Assist employees who are trying to communicate with or locate family members who may have been displaced.
5.
Share resources with employees about hurricane recovery…everything from protecting health and safety, preventing injury and illness, safe clean up, etc.
6.
Refer to the hurricane relief resources on AAOHN’s Web site at http://www.aaohn.org/member_services/hurricane_relief.cfm
.
It is during times like these that we pull together and show that our spirits are not broken. May we find comfort in each other.
Susan A. Randolph, MSN, RN, COHN-S, FAAOHN
AAOHN President
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

Nurse Practitioner needed for full-time contract position at West SFV
aerospace company.
Position accountabilities: Clinical evaluations for post offer job examinations and medical surveillance; evaluation and treatment of workrelated injuries and illnesses;
 Fitness for duty evaluations
 Urgent care assessments; drug testing;
 Management of some statistical information and reports.
Requirements: Occupational Health experience required as well as a;
 working knowledge of OSHA and
 California Workers Compensation,
 General computer skills
Please call: Carole Gallien
Director of Occupational Medicine at West Hills Hospital,
(818) 676-4741.
US-
Full time position
CA-Los Angeles-Medical Services
Manager Universal City, CA
Essential Functions (Responsibilities):
Manages the emergency and urgent medical services for guests and the occupational health services for the employees and guests of the USH/CW venues Acting as the Medical Services
Element #19 Champion, administers the training and medical surveillance necessary to achieve regulatory compliance for the organization. Direct supervision of the Occupational Health nursing staff and Emergency Response Team. Provide initial incident report information, documentation and follow-up to EHS use of Company on-line system .Support the organizations 25% I & I rate reduction goal.
Manage the return to work programs, inclusive of claims reporting and periodic reviews with the claims administration of Workers' Comp.
Qualifications/Requirements:
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: RN degree from accredited Nursing Program. Bachelor's degree from a four year college or university
3 - 5 years experience in Occupational Health Nurse management
CERTIFICATES, LICENCES, REGISTRATIONS: Current California state licensure in Nursing required. BLS/CPR certification required. COHN certification preferred
We offer a competitive salary, outstanding benefits package and the professional advantages of an environment that supports your development and recognizes your achievements. We are an Equal
Opportunity Employer.
Additional Information: Please go to Monster.com or call Laura Dale at 818-622-
3745.Position Type: Ref Code: NBC/432847/WB472
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

S C A O H N S E P T E M B E R
M E E T I I N G
Date :
Time :
September 21, 2005
Board Meeting: 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Dinner Meeting/Program: 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Place : Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center (Hope A Conference Room)
501 South Buena Vista
Burbank, CA
Phone: 818.843-5111
Speaker: Joan Rigdon RN, MSN, FNP-c, COHN-S
This presentation is designed for the experienced nurse who wants to sharpen their physical assessment skills. A head-to-toe assessment will be presented with clinical pearls offered for each system. Time saving tips will be offered as we talk through "red flags" and what systems should be included in focused examinations.
ONJECTIVES:
1.
Perform new assessment skills;
2.
Describe other mechanisms that may account for reported injuries; and
3.
Utilize pre-printed forms for effective history taking.
*************************************************************************************
CEU: 2 Contact Hours
BRN Provider: # 01407
Reservations are Required : Please RSVP by Sept 19, 2005 to
Pam Harbor-Cannon
5528 Denny Ave.
No. Hollywood, CA 91601
Phone: (323) 671-5223
Fax: (323) 671-4163
E-mail: pamela.j.harbor-cannon@abc.com
OCC-N-TALK September 2005


hosted by Saint Joseph Occupational
Health Center in Burbank.
 Sept Newsletter contributors o Pam Harbor Cannon o Donna Workman-Malcolm o Joan Rigdon o Rachelle Rolshoven
 October 19, 2005 we will be at ABC
Prospect Studios – program will be on the
FluMist.
 SCAOHN 2006-2008 Candidates o Ellie Elliot o Pam Harbor-Cannon o Karen Woodside o Katie Sellen o Jean Quay
 Nov 3-5 CSAOHN Annual Conference in

San-Francisco for more information go to www. CSAOHN.org
November 16, 2005 we are planning on being at the Smokehouse in Toluca Lake – program to be announced.

CSAOHN Board (SCAOHN Members) o Joan Rigdon o Rodgena L. Lee
OCC-N-TALK September 2005

SCAOHN Vision Statement
Southern California Association of Occupational Health Nurses is an organization that promotes and supports the specialized field of Occupational & Environmental Health Nursing through professional development, leadership, education and networking, for the purpose of maintaining quality professional practice standards.
Southern California
Association of Occupational Health Nurses
P.O. Box 951033
Mission Hills, Ca. 91395
ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED
OCC-N-TALK September 2005