It is of the utmost importance that everyone keep safety in the forefront of their minds. A safe work environment is something we all take seriously and here are some helpful safety tips and reminders:
30 of the Best Branch Safety Practices
- Be sure to report any unsafe conditions/equipment to your supervisor or safety coordinator as soon as possible.
- Any accidents, injuries, and/or illnesses should also be reported to your supervisor or safety coordinator as soon as possible.
- If you are (or if you know a co-worker who is) under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, you (or they) cannot be permitted to be on the job.
- You should not engage in horseplay or any other acts that may adversely affect the safety or well-being of yourself or your co-workers.
- Workplace exits should never be blocked, and they should be well-lighted and unlocked during working hours.
- In the event of a fire, sound the nearest alarm and evacuate the building.
- Upon hearing the alarm bell, immediately evacuate the building and gather at the designated location. Remain there until the “ALL CLEAR” signal is given.
- Only trained workers should attempt to respond to a fire or other emergency.
- All exit doors should comply with fire safety regulations during business hours.
- Exit aisles, corridors, stairs, and doorways should not be blocked by stored items, nor should they block any emergency equipment.
- All work areas should be kept safe, clean, neat, and orderly.
- All spills should be promptly cleaned up.
- Remember to use proper lifting techniques. Never attempt to push or lift an object that is too heavy for you. Contact your supervisor if you need help.
- Be careful not to stack material on top of lockers, file cabinets, or other high places. All items should be stored stably and securely.
- If you encounter frayed electrical cords or exposed wiring, report them to your supervisor as soon as possible.
- Important: Never use a metal ladder when working on or near electrical components and systems.
- Do not use electrical tools or equipment that is not properly grounded.
- All electrical equipment and appliances should be plugged into appropriate wall receptacles or into approved extension cords sized for capacity. Three-pronged plugs should be used to ensure continuity of grounding.
- All electrical cords installed in or across traffic areas should be installed in appropriate rubber protectors to prevent electrical shocks and trip hazards and to allow wheelchair access.
- Be sure to not use compressed air for cleaning off clothing.
- Important: Do not store compressed gas cylinders in areas that are exposed to extreme heat sources, electric arcs, or high-temperature lines. All cylinders should be chained in an upright position to prevent falling or tipping over.
- All pipelines should be identified and appropriately labeled as to their contents.
- Hearing protection should be worn in all areas identified as having high noise exposure.
- Goggles or face shields should be worn when performing grinding operations.
- Do not use any faulty or excessively used hand tools; instead, report them to your supervisor.
- Do not enter confined spaces unless tests for toxic substances and oxygen deficiency have been provided.
- Important: Always keep flammable or toxic chemicals in closed containers when not in use. Store in approved flammable storage cabinets.
- Do not consume food in areas where hazardous chemicals are present.
- Poisonous solutions should be appropriately labeled and stored.
- Be mindful that you comply with any written lockout/tag out (LOTO) programs required for your work.
