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Jim Destefani
Senior Editor
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Workplace 'Roid Rage
Steroid abuse is a major problem in modern sports. And, according to an article in the August issue of Occupational Health & Safety magazine, it’s coming to a company near you.
The authors say the concept of anti-aging is now ingrained in an American culture that places high value on youthful appearance and seeks to maintain it at all costs. This
makes steroid abuse a potential danger across all socioeconomic and age groups—and its entry into the workplace only a matter of time.
As if you didn’t have enough to worry about already.
The psychological effects of steroid abuse on the user—commonly, “’roid rage”—include depression, mood swings, aggressiveness, irritability, reckless behavior, impaired concentration, poor impulse control and unpredictability. Obviously, all these are undesirable in the workplace. Individuals who abuse steroids are also more likely to engage in other high-risk behaviors.
How widespread the problem is right now is unknown. But the possibility of a “juiced” employee is something to keep this in mind the next time you are faced with aggressive and unexplained behavior in the workplace.
ALSO In this issue..
- Finisher’s Perspective
- RE: Finisher’s Perspective
- Painting
- Plating
- Pollution Control
- New Products
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Share your views, win an Amazon gift certificate.
Have you known any coworkers or employees who abused steroids? Have you faced unexplained aggressive behavior at work? How did you handle the situation? Should there be pre-employment or random testing for steroids? Please share your thoughts on this topic. Responses may be published in the next issue of the Digital Dispatch, and one response will be selected as the winner of a $50 Amazon.com gift card. Click here to respond.
Last month, we asked how a coming shortage of skilled labor in manufacturing could be addressed, and how youth could be steered toward manufacturing careers. Here’s a sampling of responses.
Mark Claussen of International Automotive Components said:
I've been in [manufacturing] for over twenty years. There is always something different happening seemingly every day. I would celebrate the work-day diversity which makes my day fly by quickly. In addition, pay rates are very competitive with upper tier industries. Specialization pushes these rates much higher.
Edmond Fey of Sidney Amphenol Aerospace said:
Unfortunately, I think your description of manufacturing is fairly accurate, especially the part about “no sense of loyalty and very little security.” Have you heard of many pharmacists, nurses, doctors or lawyers laid off lately? Why wouldn't students choose these other professions?
Robert Pilzak of Kohler Power Systems said:
A picture is worth a thousand words. A promotional video put together for career days at elementary schools could show the latest technologies in today’s factory. Automatic powder booths, IR ovens, labs testing chemical baths, laser cutting, and of course robots are enough to draw almost any kid’s attention. This video would also benefit high school students about to enter the work force.
Mark’s response hits home: jobs in manufacturing involve tackling a variety of challenges every day, and that’s going to draw a certain type of individual. The question is how to communicate the challenges and opportunities presented by modern manufacturing careers. So congratulations, Mark, you’re the winner of a $50 Amazon gift card. Thanks to everyone who responded
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Feature Article—Putting Coatings to the Test
Weatherability and light stability are important for many products. This article explores two testing methods and provides guidelines for specific materials and applications. To read more, click here.
Painting Clinic—Technical Terms
This reader heard some rather baffling terms used in conversation with a chemical supplier. To read our expert Carl Izzo’s humorous and helpful response, click here.
Painting Forum—Painting EN Parts
This reader would like to know how to achieve maximum paint adhesion on electroless nickel plated surfaces. Think you can help? Click here.
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Feature Article—Current Affair: Examining the "No Amperage" Phenomenon
Most electroplaters have experienced the "no amperage phenomenon": the rectifier is putting out voltage but no amperage. Although the problem is often easily diagnosed and corrected, sometimes the solution is more complex. To read more, click here.
Plating Clinic—Improved Process Control
This reader is asking for information on how to institute a more structured plating environment with better process control. Click here to read the answer of our plating expert Art Kushner.
Plating Forum—Alkaline Zinc-Nickel Plating
This reader is seeking information on process control and parameters for alkaline zinc-nickel plating processes. Any thoughts? Click here.
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Feature Article—MON MACT Impact
The clock is ticking for paint and coating operations to reduce HAP emissions and meet EPA guidelines.
Painters are now required to implement maximum achievable control technology (MACT) on hazardous air pollutants. For a look at some of the technologies available, click here.
Pollution Control Clinic—TCLP Testing Needed?
This reader would like to know whether wastewater filter press cake from his company’s metal finishing operations, which is not classified as RCRA hazardous waste, requires regular testing for TCLP metals. Our pollution control expert Stephen R. Schulte responds here.
Pollution Control Forum—Aluminum Bright Dip Emissions
Already using two wet scrubbers with a caustic liquor to bring emissions from an aluminum bright dip process into compliance, this reader would like information on how to reduce the yellow-brown color of the emissions. Click here to respond with your suggestions.
From the product repository of PF Online:
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