Keep Your Work Area Clean
Keeping your workstation or service truck clean is important for a number of reasons- In addition to improving jobsite safety and reducing the potential for accidents, clean workspaces can help boost a company’s image in the eyes of customers. A messy, disorganized workspace can also be a potential trigger for an OSHA safety violation, as clutter can make a jobsite dangerous.
Here are some housekeeping tips we’ve assembled so you can keep your workspace in great shape.
General Housekeeping Tips For a Workstation or Service Truck
-Hold everyone in the workplace accountable for housekeeping
-Keep walkways free of debris, cords, cables and storage items
-Clean up oil, water and grease on floors immediately
-Train all employees on the proper disposal of combustible and flammable materials
Signs of Poor Housekeeping In a Work Area or Service Truck
-General clutter/untidiness
-Extension cords or air hoses laying around floor
-Spills or leaks on the floor
-Oil hoses that are not capped off
-Products in secondary containers that are not labeled
-Burnt out lights
-Oil storage areas are cluttered and not picked up
More Safety Tips: Items To Consider Before Starting a Job
Do you need a spotter? In some circumstances, if a vehicle has an obstructed view to the rear, OSHA requires a backup alarm or a spotter when the vehicle is backing up. All forklifts, heavy equipment and construction site equipment must have an operating audible alarm. Even if your vehicle being moved has a backup camera, use it, but don’t solely rely on it- Consider a spotter.
Are you near power lines? The general rule is to stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines which pertains to personnel, equipment, scaffolding and ladders. However, for higher voltages, the power line clearance requirements increase.
Have there been any “near-misses?” Many safety rules and policies are created after an incident or injury occurs. But reviewing “near-miss” incidents and accidents with the intent of preventing future accidents and incidents is a crucial part of our safety system. Be proactive: If you see an unsafe act or condition, say something!
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