You can work safe by preventing workplace accidents and inspecting your own safety practices before you start working.
8 tips for preventing accidents
Most accidents are the result of three things:
- Not recognizing hazards. People don’t take the time to get the information they need to work safely so they’re not aware of all the potential hazards.
- Not paying attention. They don’t concentrate on what they’re doing; they’ve got their mind on other things so they don’t see a problem coming.
- Taking risks. People take chances, cut corners and do other risky things, such as failing to wear required PPE, because they don’t think they’re going to get hurt.
That means you can prevent accidents by identifying hazards and taking precautions. Remember eight simple tips for preventing job accidents:
Work carefully and wisely—no rushing, no shortcuts.
Organize your work and plan each job before you start.
Remain alert for hazards while you work.
Know what to do in an emergency.
Seek the information you need to start and finish the job safely.
Ask if there’s anything you don’t understand.
Focus on what you’re doing and avoid distractions.
Examine tools and equipment to make sure they’re in good condition.
Inspect yourself for safety before you begin the workday.
When safety experts talk about workplace inspections, they’re usually talking about inspecting things. But what about people? Shouldn’t we inspect people for safety, too? At the start of every workday do you give yourself a good once over?
- Are you wearing required PPE?
- Do you have on sensible shoes with nonslip soles or safety shoes?
- Is long hair, long sleeves, or other items that could get caught in moving machinery parts secured?
- Are you wide awake and fully alert?
- How’s your safety attitude?
- Have you covered cuts and scrapes with a bandage to keep them clean while you work?
- Have you talked to your supervisor if you’re taking any medications that could make you drowsy or slow to respond to danger and place you at risk of an accident?
- Did you take a couple of minutes to stretch and loosen up your muscles if you’re going to be doing physical work?
- Is your work posture relaxed and correct so that you avoid stresses and strains on your body while you work?
- Is your mind fully focused on your work, and not on personal problems or what you’re going to do after work?
Good! Now you’re ready to work safely!
