Work Safely as a Team
At GIW Industries, Inc., safety is a top priority and the responsibility of every employee, whether or not they work with heavy machinery. Since we work as a team, looking out for fellow employees’ well-being is as important as looking out for one’s own. By watching for and reporting workplace hazards, employees can ensure that no person or piece of equipment is put at risk. Here are some tips on how to watch out for co-workers, help them follow safe practices, and report safety violations.
Being proactive about safety
While a forklift may only seat one, nobody at GIW works alone, and safety practices should reflect that. This is especially true when heavy machinery is being operated, but employees must be able to identify and avoid workplace hazards at any time. With that in mind, employees should be proactive about clearing the workplace of potential dangers. The measures they can take include:
- Removing loose components and cords from the floor
- Performing regular pre-operation inspections of all equipment
- Being aware of one’s surroundings
- Securing heavy or oddly shaped loads before carrying
- Acquiring necessary training and clearance before operating equipment
When in doubt, employees should ask themselves “what if” questions before performing actions that could pose a hazard to them, their co-workers, or the equipment.
Watching out for your team
Another option is to ask a teammate or supervisor if an action or practice could cause a workplace incident. Clear communication about safety practices and potential hazards will help keep every team member on the same page. Those in charge of teams will find it prudent to lead regular conferences on safe practices and new processes. If a process comes with a job safety analysis (JSA), managers should make a point of familiarizing their team members with the details associated with their duties.
It is similarly important that employees know how and when to speak out about dangerous practices. Whether they occur through negligence or inexperience, workplace violations must be reported. If a team member is spotted working unsafely or cutting essential corners, they should be reported immediately to their supervisor or to the Environment, Health & Safety (ESH) Department. If unsafe practices or conditions pose a potential but not immediate threat, a safety concern form can be submitted.
Ultimately, workplace safety comes down to situational awareness, vigilance, and clear communication. Teams that know what to look for and, more importantly, what not to do, will work together to reduce the risk of workplace accidents. Following basic behavior-based safety practices and maintaining a sense of mutual responsibility will go a long way toward keeping GIW a safe place to work.
