OCTOBER SAFETY TOPIC: GETTING TO KNOW A NEW FACILITY

Best Practices for Risk Reduction - Monthly 5 Minute Safety Talk

What can you do to understand and address the risks of a new facility?

     WHY: Earning a new contract (a new customer, or an additional operation or building for an existing customer) is something to celebrate! We want to take every opportunity to get off to a good start, so we take care to understand the customer’s expectations and plan our work to meet or exceed those standards. One especially important expectation should be that our staff work carefully and safely to avoid accidents and injuries. 
     WHAT: Each customer setting has its own set of risks. Completing a building walk-through and discussions with your customer contact can provide you with a good start to better understanding what is "out there" and could potentially pose a risk to your staff. If controls are inadequate, here are some basic things you should look for and make plans to address if controls are inadequate: 
      1. Security: Is the exterior parking lot and entrance area fenced, gated, or otherwise protected to prevent unauthorized access or entry? How is the building secured while your staff is inside? Are security cameras in use? 
      2. Steps and stairs: where are they? Are they in good condition? Will staff need to use these or clean them on a routine basis? Are the treads and handrails in good condition? 
      3. Lighting: Is lighting adequate to illuminate all work areas? Will staff have the ability to turn on lights that may be off? Are light switches easily accessible? 
      4. Floor Surface/Work Area: Is the floor surface itself smooth and free of cracks or other trip hazards? Is there any obstruction that would impede the use of your equipment? 
      5. Trip Hazards: What is the layout of equipment, furniture, cords, trash, etc., and does any of it protrude into walkways or work areas? 
      6. Hazardous Operations: Consider the customer’s class of business and what (if any) hazardous equipment, machinery, chemicals, or trash (blood or bodily fluids?) are present in the place of business. What are the precautions necessary, or PPE required? 
     WHEN: As soon as possible, complete the walkthrough and assess the potential risk to your employees. If you do have concerns, have a diplomatic discussion with your customer contact regarding what plans (if any) they have to minimize the risks observed. If they do not share your concerns, you need to decide what you can do to minimize the risks to your staff. 
     HOW: At a minimum, train your staff to recognize the at-risk working conditions, environments, and hazards before their first time at the new location. Be sure to provide indicated PPE and ensure they are clear on observed hazards and what they should do to minimize their risk of having an accident. Make sure the supervisor is prepared to assist the staff should additional questions or concerns arise.