Helpful Tools for Prevention

• Communicate openly with each other. Do not belittle anyone during the work process. If there is uncertainty in the task from someone, stop the operation and re-group. Take another look at the task, step-by-step, remember that – ‘It is a team effort for safety. ‘
• Ensure that if training is required for the task that it is done ahead of time; and it is understood not just someone nodding their head up-and-down. Written tasks are good for reference.
• Ensure personnel have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for use; they understand how it is supposed to be used; and that the PPE is in good condition for usage. DO NOT assume that everyone knows how to use PPE. For example, jack hammer usage – ensure that the employee protects their hearing with protective hearing devices versus using an earphone.
• If  equipment/specialized equipment is going to be used, ensure personnel know how to use it; that they are familiar with all aspects of the equipment; and they’re trained on it. Note: a written manual of the equipment should be nearby for reference/operations/maintenance
• Conduct safety briefings before you commence a task. Ensure personnel are familiar with what will occur. Ask questions and request that questions be asked to ensure that everyone is on the same page as to what is expected. OSHA requires job briefing:
  • OSHA 29CFR1926.952(c)(1) - At least one before each day or shift. If the work or operations to be performed during the workday or shift are repetitive and similar, at least one job briefing shall be conducted before the start of the first job of each day or shift. [This reference falls under one set of job task which is electrical work but can be used under any select job as a guideline for performance that can be used by OSHA under the General Duty Clause.]
• Do not take short cuts in performing a task; take your time; read through what is going to happen or even walking/talking through the task. The following are examples of short cuts that could lead to injury/damage: 
  • Lifting a piece of heavy equipment too quickly could lead to a back injury;
  • Using a tool improperly could lead to injury to oneself or someone else or damage to a structure;
  • Skipping a rest break or breaks can lead to fatigue and injury;
  • Not properly storing a piece of equipment could lead to damage to the equipment and damage to you or a fellow co-worker;
  • Not following the directions by taking short cuts could lead to equipment failure; bodily injury; structural damage etc.
• Everyday task such as walking can pose a hazard. Do not allow yourself to be easily distracted such as using a phone, reading a book or using some other device while walking – according to the National Safety Council (NSC) – ‘Distracted walking incidents are on the rise, and everyone with a cell phone is at risk. We are losing focus on our surroundings and putting our safety at 
  risk. The solution: Stop using phones while walking, and not just in crosswalks and intersections. Over half of distracted walking injuries occur in our own homes, proving that we need to stay aware of our surroundings whether indoors and out.’
• Post Warning signs to alert individuals about upcoming hazards.
• Use bright colors to bring attention to uneven areas and/or strange/awkwardly shaped devices/objects.
• Install textured flooring/grounds in areas where the ground shifts elevation to allow an eventransition. These are good for areas where high humidity may occur or areas where low lighting may be an issue or for individuals that have low visibility in traversing an area.