The 2019 Top Ten Safety Tips

Working in an industrial area is exciting and very rewarding to many, but it can also contain a lot of hidden hazards detrimental to someone’s health. Approximately 5.7 of every 100 workers experience a job-related injury or illness each year.  Here we have collected some of the Top 10 Safety tips to help keep you safe from common dangers around the job. 

 1. Use tools and machines properly

• Always make sure that you know how to use tools or machinery correctly.  If you are not comfortable with any equipment do not operate it until you have further training! Accidents can quickly happen when something is not a familiar item.  Common issues include using the wrong tool for a task or creating an unsafe environment while not correctly using heavy equipment.

2. Be aware of your surroundings

• Check your surroundings and make sure they are up to standards.  If there are preventable measures to take, always check those are intact, such as certain marks on equipment.  A tool like the Security Check Paint Marker is great for making sure that equipment is stable and safe for use.

3. Be safe in the cold weather

• Working outside means watching out for harsh weather! Be mindful of extreme temperatures and in this current winter weather, keep your skin protected. 

4.  Follow procedure, don’t take shortcuts

• Trying to take shortcuts to save time or money can possibly cause a procedure to be done the wrong way.  In the end it may cost the company more time and money either in the short or long run.  Always follow correct procedures as they are being held in place for a reason, if you see a beneficial shortcut speak with a supervisor first.

5.  Wear your protective gear

• It is important to always wear protective gear where it is required.  Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes items like hard hats, goggles, shoes and gloves that are vital to staying safe in certain work environments.  The reasons to wear this gear can vary from job to job; make sure to always wear everything that is necessary.

6.  If you see unsafe conditions, let a supervisor know

• Being aware of your surroundings means you may spot unsafe conditions in a work environment.  If you spot unsafe work areas make sure to make this known to a supervisor or corresponding personnel.  Marking items or machinery with appropriate tools can help bring possible hazards to attention.  Marking tools such as Valve Action Paint Markers or even more specified tools like Tempilabels  to measure temperatures can be great help.

7.  Take breaks

• Long periods of time without proper breaks can lead to a decrease in focus or alertness.  This can possibly also cause a loss in productivity; make sure you are taking regular breaks within your work day.

8.  Stay sober

• Drugs or alcohol cause a huge difference in productivity and affect your motor skills and judgment.  This is a huge hazard for yourself and coworkers around you make sure to never take any drugs or alcohol prior to beginning your work day.

9.  Practice correct posture

• Bad posture may not seem like a big problem but in the long run can have a huge effect on the employee as well as the company.  Make sure to practice good posture while sitting or lifting to avoid, sprains, strains, muscle tears or dislocations on your back or hips.

10.  Reduce workplace stress

• Talk to your manager if workplace stress is hindering your focus.  Workplace stress can include issues such as overly long hours, conflicts with coworkers and heavy workloads.  This often leads to distractions, rushing and lower productivity. 

*source: https://employment.findlaw.com/workplace-safety/osha-faqs.html