Safety as an Ongoing Operation

Why don’t companies look at safety as an ongoing operation? Most companies purchase a manual and place it on the shelf to collect dust. If they are ambitious, they may take a step forward and even enter data in a software program or insert basic information into their manual. Unfortunately, that is not enough. Safety must be maintained and keeping your program fresh and “in sync” with OSHA and best practices requires a great deal of effort. Even the conscientious safety director with good intentions in most cases falls behind. A practical approach and credible resources are needed to maintain an effective, ongoing safety program. 
Obviously, the most important component is a proper plan and structure. A good foundation includes management commitment and employee involvement, work-site analysis, hazard control and training. Commitment from management can be demonstrated through written policies, a safety budget and involvement in activities such as the review of accident investigations. Employees can be part of administering training, site inspections and accident reporting. Work-site analysis is accomplished through review of accident records, job-site inspections, and job-hazard analyses. Hazard controls include all steps taken to avoid injury including employee incentives and disciplinary measures. In order to complete the base program, all employees need to be trained. 

The problem is that even with a complete program, addressing updates and staying current can be overwhelming. You need a plan and credible and current resources that allow you to evaluate the updates in relation to your safety program and OSHA activity. The following is a suggested update strategy: 

• Establish a review schedule:  To avoid being overwhelmed, select a topic to review each month. Pay particular attention to hazards OSHA has selected as a focus.

• Perform required actions and establish a record:  After identifying the required procedures and updating the written safety program, “take action.” For example, if you establish required PPE or workplace assessments, make sure they are completed and documented each and every month.

• Check related equipment:  Many hazards are associated with equipment or personal-protective equipment. Make sure proper maintenance has been performed. Schedule future inspections and follow your preventative maintenance schedules.  If you haven’t established them yet, there is no time like the present.   By tracking inspection activity you are able to establish a strict schedule for your next series of inspections.

• Conduct Refresher Training:  Update and administer employee training. Include basic information on hazards and any new information. Previously trained employees can always benefit from a refresher.

• Hire an Outside Consultant:  Hiring a third party with a fresh set of eye’s and perspective on your organization can make a dramatic impact.  Not to mention, holding your “feet to the fire” to make sure tasks and training are being completed as required.

With a solid foundation and proper structure in place, you are on your way to creating an effective, ongoing safety program. Select the resources that best fit your schedule and budget. Make sure you understand the resources you select, will affect the amount of effort it takes to deliver an effective program. Remember the right choices are the ones you can sustain and measure. Don’t wait, whichever option you chose, get your safety program started today.