Safety programs are not optional. They are not short and sweet, nor are they written in as few words as possible. Safety programs are extensive, they are all encompassing, and they are detailed. Safety programs are designed to address every possible scenario that could happen on site, not only to employees but also to contractors and visitors as well. Well, at least extremely well written programs have all the above characteristics. Unfortunately, all too often safety programs are the last thing managers think about referencing.
Safety programs are not optional. They are not short and sweet, nor are they written in as few words as possible. Safety programs are extensive, they are all encompassing, and they are detailed. Safety programs are designed to address every possible scenario that could happen on site, not only to employees but also to contractors and visitors as well. Well, at least extremely well written programs have all the above characteristics. Unfortunately, all too often safety programs are the last thing managers think about referencing. Sure, almost every facility has one, somewhere, and it was probably written when the company was founded. But if employees can’t find it, if they don’t have their own version in handbook form, then how can a facility expect them to know what is expected?
Worksite Analysis is the next section in the audit list of a well written and executed safety program. The very first issue that is raised discusses “Management Understanding.” It is essential that safety is a priority from the very top all the way to the very bottom of the ladder. If the employees know that their bosses and their bosses bosses are all promoting a true “Safety First” attitude, then they will be exponentially more likely to participate then if safety is perceived as merely a check mark on a box on a report.
In addition to management buy in a safe worksite is comprised of Industrial Hygiene monitoring. Not only should the company have IH monitoring done on a regular basis, but if they have IH monitoring performed in house on a yearly basis, occasionally a third party firm should be hired to also conduct IH monitoring. Monitoring, however, is not where it ends. To have a safe worksite IH programs must be put in place as well. Regular monitoring and up to date programs must be a routine part of the operations of any facility to ensure a safe worksite.
It wouldn’t be called worksite “analysis” if there wasn’t some form of analysis implementation. All parts of the worksite should be analyzed. From hazards to job site trends to pre-use analysis, all of these things play an important role of having a safe worksite. Employees must know all the hazards involved with their job but the only way to know the hazards and write a comprehensive report is to analyze each job. Employers want to know the trends not only developing in their facility but also in the world of safety management. If it has been over a year since your facility has had a safety audit click here to find the nearest firm.
Occupational Health Overcomes Everyday Hazards
Many workers face different types of hazards on a daily basis. Each company has a responsibility to proactively protect their employees from hazards encountered in the workplace. Accidents or injuries can bring production to a halt, reduce the workforce while the employee is recovering and lead to costly worker compensation claims. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can help your company improve the Occupational Health present at your facility.
The Risk from Asbestos
Asbestos poses a major health risk in many office buildings and homes due to the wide adoption and usage of asbestos as an insulator in the construction process. Asbestos can be found in the glue beneath vinyl flooring or in material applied to concrete to regulate the temperature between floors in an office building. These buildings and homes are being remodeled and modernized as an update to the space, but the demolition process can be hazardous if asbestos is present. Test for asbestos prior to starting your next remodeling project to ensure workers are safe.
Communicating the Dangers with HazCom
Hazard Communication focuses on explaining the dangers present at the workplace. The employees have a right to understand the hazards present and how to remain safe on the jobsite. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can work with your company to fulfill the HazCom requirement set forth by OSHA.
