As work gets back into full swing after the holidays, it’s important for employers to exercise more vigilant control of their workplace to ensure that it is still safe place to work. Every person is responsible for being alert and creating a safe work environment the minute they step onto the jobsite. If the minds of team members are still on holidays, who is watching out for their safety?
What employers can do:
Start the new year off with a safety stand-down refresher meeting.
Management can set a weekly agenda and make sure all safety topics are covered before the tasks begin.
Be more vigilant to take precautions in the work place, as routine tasks cause the most accidents after a long holiday.
All scaffolds, working platforms, lifting appliances, gas welding and flame cutting operations, confined spaces and excavations should be inspected by competent persons to ensure that they are in safe condition before putting them to use again.
Exercise more vigilant control and supervision of their workplace to make sure that safe work practices are being followed.
What employees can do:
Take a moment to breathe and not get overwhelmed.
Prioritize what needs to get done.
Take a moment to identify known or potential hazards before catching up on tasks.
Set realistic timelines in order to ensure that work isn’t rushed.
Look over all equipment, identify new hazards if they are present, and ensure it is well-maintained and ready to use.
Let’s work together to help employees refresh, refocus, and re-engage back in the job!