Correctly recognizing potential hazards is the first step in ensuring the safety of workers. Look for anything (object or process) that might threaten your workers on site.
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Begin identifying hazards by doing a workplace inspection. Roam around the workplace:
- Examine how each task is executed
- Evaluate equipment and how it is used
- Analyze the arrangement of work areas and how any of the processes or materials used can possibly pose a threat to your workers’ health
Generally, hazards may emerge from the following:
- Work area
- Machinery and materials used
- Work assignments and how they are done
- Work layout and supervision
If you’re used to working in a certain environment, you might not see potential hazards. To identify these hazards, here are some tips to help you out:
- For machinery and materials (especially those that are hazardous), always check manufacturer instructions and safety data sheets. Also, consider the effects of long-term exposure.
- Check commonplace tasks like maintenance, cleaning, or shifting production schedule.
- Study incident reports including complaints and worker health records to recognize unnoticed hazards. Reviewing previous incidents may reveal a certain pattern that can aid you in recognizing any systemic hazard.
- Keep communications open with workers and ask them about any observed health and safety concerns. Probe anonymously, using open-ended questions. You can even acknowledge workers who are able to recognize hazards early as it ultimately helps your business.
- Monitor industry organizations, manufacturers, and government laws regarding industry safety standards and information on hazards and risks related to your industry.
- Check out resources for information on prevalent hazards in different industries, including those that are caused by tools and machinery.
- Once hazards are identified, assessment and control of the risks will follow.
Contact:
Working Safety Solutions
#200-4170 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, B.C.
604-320-7850
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