Semester Project

1. Complete a research report on a pre-approved topic of your choice in occupational safety.
2. If research report covers a topic discussed in class, it should investigative the topic in greater detail.
3. Reports will be evaluated on content, clarity, accuracy, organization, and originality.
4. References are to be listed.
5. Format:
   1. Maximum 5 pages
   2. Single-spaced
   3. 1-inch margins
   4. 12-point font
6. Discussion topics to be included (at a minimum):
   1. Basic explanation and scope of the topic
   2. Explanation of why the topic is important
   3. Exploration of the occupational risks associated with the topic (i.e. what injuries are commonly associated with this topic and how prevalent are injuries, illnesses and fatalities related to this topic)
   4. Besides occupational injuries, what other ramifications are possible for non-compliance
   5. A clear and comprehensive explanation of standards related to this topic (both regulatory and consensus)

Examples of research topics:

• Machine guarding
• Mining safety requirements
• Roofing safety requirements
• Confined space requirements
• Warnings
• Industrial hygiene
• Confined spaces
• Trench safety
• Robotic safety
• Materials handling equipment
• Safety training of employees
• Food processing safety
• Lockout/tagout
• Ventilation
• Personal protective equipment
• Life Safety Code application
• Asbestos remediation

Grading Standards: I will assess your work in the context of a “real world” business setting.  For each piece of writing you complete, keep the following scale in mind.

 “A” Range:  A manager would be very impressed and remember the work when a promotion is considered.  Your work may contain the following elements: an effective, interesting, well-written, and perhaps unusual or original solution; clear logical reasoning that connotes thoughtful organization and appropriate development; the appropriate tone for the given writing situation; excellent visual presentation; and virtually error-free grammar and mechanics.

 “B” Range: A manager would be satisfied with the job, but not impressed.  It may contain the following elements: a competent, effective solution to the problem; a logically and adequately developed message; a clear, concise, and empathetic style; effective visual presentation; few mechanical and grammatical errors.

 “C” Range:  A manager would be disappointed and ask you to revise or rewrite sections before allowing others outside of the department to see the work. Work may contain the following elements: an acceptable, but perhaps weak solution and pattern of organization; obvious gaps in logic or incorrect information; errors in style, tone, or mechanics.

 “D” Range: A manager would be troubled by the poor quality of your work. Work may contain the following elements: many errors in organization, development, word choice, style, tone, and/or mechanics.

 “F” Range: A manager would begin looking for someone to replace you. Work contains an unacceptable number of errors in one or more of the following: content, organization, style, tone, or mechanics.  The document may violate the facts explicitly given in the problem.