Six Steps to Workplace Safety

1) Perform a Facility Safety Audit/Analysis

2) Select Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Select personal protective equipment designed for a specific operation or hazard (i.e., cut-resistant or heat-resistant gloves, etc.)
Protective equipment must meet the current standards outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHAct) and subsequent revisions.
PPE should meet appropriate OSHA 29 CFR 1910 standards.
Have equipment fitted by an PPE professional or someone trained to do this.

3) Require Compliance for NFPA 70e/Arc Flash and other mandatory safety programs

For maximum protection against hand injury, establish a 100 percent mandatory program that requires protection throughout all operations areas of your plant.
Mandatory programs prevent injuries better and are easier to enforce than those limited to certain departments, areas or jobs.
Provide the means for maintenance and require each worker to be responsible for his or her own gloves and other safety equipment.

4) Plan for Emergencies

Establish first-aid procedures for injuries.
Make eyewash stations accessible, particularly where chemicals are used.
Train employees in basic first aid and identify those with more advanced first-aid training.

5) Train and Educate

Conduct ongoing educational programs to establish, maintain and reinforce the need for personal protective equipment.
Add workplace safety to your regular employee education/training and orientation programs.
All management personnel should set an example by wearing protective equipment whenever and wherever required.
Continually review and, when necessary, revise your accident prevention strategies. Aim for the elimination of all accidents and injuries.

6) Document/Put It in Writing

When all elements of your safety program have been established, be sure to put them in writing.
Display a copy of the policy in all employee areas, and include a review of the policy in new employee orientation.

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