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Awareness Prevents Accidents Planning and Training Support Workplace Safety
September, 2008
By Jeffrey Quinn
Accidents and emergency situations can happen in any environment, in any industry, at any time. The US National Safety Council reports that someone is killed as a result of a preventable injury every four minutes.
Recognizing potential hazards and remaining aware will significantly reduce risks. Here are some tips to remember in the workplace.
( Cleanliness is Next to Godliness. The ancient proverb still rings true today. In a workplace, it's important that cleaning agents are available to everyone to routinely clean and disinfect common areas. Cleanliness is important for all employees, not just food service and health care workers. To reduce or eliminate the spread of colds and viruses, remind workers to wash their hands thoroughly - for at least 10 to 20 seconds - and often.
( Hatch a Plan. Establish and communicate a company emergency/disaster plan to all employees and make sure everyone, including new employees, is educated on the plan. Staff notification, evacuation and an assembly location should be included in the plan.
All plans should be periodically tested through physical drills that include verifying emergency supplies such as batteries, First Aid kits and flashlights. Emergency contact lists for employees, clients, police, fire and paramedic departments should also be reviewed and updated regularly.
( Drive Safe. Driving can be second nature so the dangers it presents may be overlooked. Whether you are driving your own vehicle to work, a company vehicle to a meeting, or heavy machinery around a construction site, safety should always be top of mind. Accidents are costly and threaten lives, and can often be avoided. Take your time and consider safety your first priority.
( Safety Instructions Matter. Use all equipment, including ladders and electrical cords, properly as per the instruction manual. Follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines on all electrical equipment. Be sure to lock all doors and shut down all electrical devices when leaving a workspace.
( Report Unidentified Spills. If you come across a chemical spill and cannot identify the substance, do not touch or move it. Barricade the area and report the spill. Never take a hazardous chemical out of its original container and store it in something else.
( Clear the Way. The smallest obstruction can cause major damage. It is important to always keep all working and walking surfaces free of spills and debris. This is important in all environments. Safety may be the mantra in warehouses and at industrial sites, but employees in corporate settings should be alert as well. Spilled coffee in a stairwell or an electrical cord stretched across a walkway can lead to slips and falls resulting in serious injuries.
( Recognize Strangers. Become familiar with the people in the immediate work area so to easily identify an individual who may not belong there. Report a stranger or co-worker displaying suspicious or potentially threatening behavior. Don't share access-control codes or keys with anyone. Associates and vendors, even those who visit often should be treated as guests and should follow guest access procedures.
( Protect Yourself. Personal protection equipment should be taken seriously. Use hard hats, safety glasses, gloves and other equipment when appropriate. If it is not available, ask for it.
( Fire and Wood Spell Trouble. Keep combustibles such as wood, paper and trash away from all heat sources.
( Report and Investigate. If an accident does occur, it is important to report it immediately. Accurate records need to be kept and changes may need to be made to prevent future dangerous situations.
Taking personal accountability and proactively contributing to a secure working atmosphere before a problem occurs is the best way to stay safe. Keeping to the basics; taking the time to develop comprehensive plans; communicating those plans via policies, procedures and announcements; and conducting actual exercises will help protect the health and safety of employees and emergency responders.
Jeffrey M. Quinn is Director of Risk Management for AlliedBarton Security Services. For more information, see the web site at www.alliedbartorn.com.
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