Construction specialty contractors and anyone who manages in a similar field have one thing in common: they want to ensure the physical safety of their employees. Aside from an obvious moral obligation to do so, proper safety protocol prevents both legal and PR disasters that can cost the company thousands.
Of course, proper safety protocol always starts with proper communication. After all, hazards can’t be avoided if workers don’t know what to avoid in the first place! That’s why MC Tool & Safety, a construction product supplier, has put together a short list of tips to help your business take care of occupational hazards the right way.
SEE SOMETHING, DO SOMETHING
Above all, this is the mentality that must be fostered among all construction workers, be them of public works projects, private commercial contractors, or of a business in the manufacturing industry. OSHA standards declare that every employee deserves a safe place to work, but part of creating a safe environment starts with workers taking responsibility. In other words, managers and workplace officials should stress that if employees see something, they shouldn’t just say something, but do something.
How do you create a workplace culture that’s active and engaged—that does something—when it comes to hazard communication?
● Make reporting a low-risk experience. Don’t react in anger or frustration when your employees come to you with a safety hazard, even if it’s one that workers themselves may have caused. If workers feel that reporting unsafe conditions to their employer is likely to result in disciplinary action, they will cease to voice their concerns, resulting in those unsafe conditions snowballing out of control.
● Always take your workers seriously. Even if it’s a potential hazard that you, as an employer, feel is inconsequential, know that your workers have probably been dealing with any given unsafe environment firsthand, and their concerns are likely to be valid. Always investigate any claims of unsafe practices or machinery that could hypothetically cause workplace injury.
● Take safety equipment seriously. Not investing in the proper construction safety equipment is morally questionable at best; at worst, it can be a violation of OSHA standards. Stock up on high-visibility clothing and fall protection equipment periodically, especially after workplace accidents.
NEED SAFETY HELP? MC TOOL & SAFETY HAS YOU COVERED
Keep your workers safe this winter season with proper competent person training and safety gear from MC Tool & Safety of Blaine, Minnesota. If you have any questions about our products, give us a call today at 1-800-206-2569.
