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SPOTLIGHT

Better Safe Than...

By Peju Fatuyi

The statistics are quite alarming and I dare say if compared to ours might be a lot more as it is commonplace not to give consideration to safety practices. Hazards in the workplace or construction site are largely identified by

• Unsafe Acts: actions of people deliberately, in-error or in ignorance that have potential to cause harm
• Unsafe Conditions: Whatever is present in the surroundings or environment that has potential to cause harm

It is a worthwhile investment to take out some time and develop a HSE management policy for your workplace and to apply this throughout the entire company. Reporting of HSE events, accident reporting, risk identification reports are also essential parts of HSE management; as such records will help in audits, improvement suggestions and also identify areas of needed HSE training.            

 

Some workplace safety practices are:

• Proper Ergonomics in use of furniture and equipment
• Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) on Job site
• Practice of good housekeeping
• Conduct of Safety Pep Talk
• Conduct of Toolbox briefing
• Provision of a Muster point
• Use of safety symbols and signs
• Conduct of Tailgate Briefing, that is:

Talk about the job

Assign specific tasks

Identify hazards

Let the workmen know what is expected

Generate alternative plans

Allow time to complete the job

Think about the details of routine jobs

Evaluate workmen’s understanding of their responsibilities

Benefits of HSE Management
The benefits are evident and applying it to the workplace isn’t difficult as it is more about imbibing a safety culture. It offers significant opportunities such as:

• Creates a more efficient, effective and productive work environment
• Promotes client satisfaction and retention
• Increases productivity because employees are healthier, more aware, happier and better motivated
• Reduces costs and risks with a tendency to improve profit
• Lowers employee absence and turnover rates
• Lessens threats of legal action
• Reduces waste
• Improves the standing of corporate responsibility amongst customers and the community.

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