| Be prepared
Summer and its hazards are just around the corner
Summer is the time for maintenance and construction projects in many schools. Unfortunately, it is also the time of more injuries and accidents.
Preparation is key in preventing accidents. Practice these steps when working on uncommon projects during the summer months.
| 1. |
Have a plan
Review past projects for success and accidents. Don't recreate the wheel. |
- Do a workplace analysis of the affected area to make sure all hazards have been identified and eliminated when possible.
- Identify all potential aspects of the project. For example, identify all trees that need trimming and make sure to have the right equipment available for all aspects of the job.
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| 2. |
Involve supervisors
Supervisors and other upper level staff need to be aware of the hazards too. They should: |
- Assure that correct equipment is available to workers and that they have been trained on proper use. Don't overlook personal protective equipment.
- Observe workers and offer feedback to verify that procedures are being followed correctly or to point out what they should be doing differently to be safe.
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| 3. |
Communicate
Tell employees their responsibilities in safety. They need to know your expectations. |
- Train on the hazards before the job begins. Knowing is half the battle.
- Give explicit directions about what needs to be done. Keep everyone on the same page.
- Lay out the timeline and have everyone agree to it. Rushing often causes accidents and injuries.
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4.
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Make your workers aware
Custodians and grounds workers should be aware of these specific hazards: |
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Call your SFM Loss Prevention representative for more information on specific safety training at
(800) 937-1181. |
Advice from SFM's print publication
Hiring young people
With the right precautions, you can avoid extra risk
Young workers, particularly young men, are at a higher risk of injury than other workers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Young workers generally are inexperienced at recognizing workplace hazards. They are often eager to please and afraid they'll look dumb if they ask questions. So, they take risks that could be avoided.
Tips on what to watch for when hiring young workers. From the Companion archive. |
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Get the help you need;
call your SFM LP rep
Part of preparing for the changes that come in the summer months may include utilizing outside help from your SFM Loss Prevention representative.
Your LP rep can help with:
- Safety training
- Workplace analysis
- Project planning
Schedules fill fast. Contact your LP rep soon to schedule a visit before the summer rush and risks.
Call (800) 937-1181 or email
lossprevention@sfmic.com
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