Category: Safe Together

• Always check that a door or gate clicks shut before walking away.
• Never allow someone to follow you through unless you are certain they are a colleague.
• Stay alert around high-risk areas, including: Door into the Canalside office, door in Hartill’s office, door into Morrall’s, green gate into the compound/clocking-in machine.

If you discover or suspect a fire:

Your safety comes first – focus on getting yourself out and alerting others.

• Raise the alarm by pressing the nearest red fire alarm call point (these are usually found on walls near stairwells and exits).
• Evacuate the building and encourage those around you to do the same. Head to a safe spot outside, such as across the street.
• Fire extinguishers should only be used if you’re trained, unless you need one to help you get out safely.

Preventing fires and reducing risks:

A few small actions can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe:

• Be mindful with extension cables. Just because it has four sockets doesn’t mean it’s safe to use them all at once! High-power devices, like mobile heaters, shouldn’t be plugged into extensions. If you need more sockets, log a helpdesk ticket with maintenance for advice.
• Keep escape routes clear. Fire exits and corridors must always be accessible – please don’t block them, even for a short time.
• Don’t prop open internal doors. Many are fire doors designed to stop smoke and flames from spreading.
• Stay on top of waste disposal. Empty bins regularly and recycle cardboard to prevent buildup.
• Leave fire extinguishers where they are. They’ve been placed in specific locations for a reason.
• See something concerning? Let the Duty Manager know so they can take action.

By keeping these simple steps in mind, we can all help keep our workplace safe!

Manual handling operations are a significant contributor to workplace injuries, ill health, and lost time. Common injuries include muscle and ligament strains, hernias, slipped discs, joint injuries (to the knees, ankles, arms, and shoulders), as well as cuts and bruises to the hands, arms, and feet.

Employers have a duty, as far as is reasonably practicable, to minimise the need for manual handling where there is a foreseeable risk of injury. To mitigate these risks, mechanical aids such as cranes, forklift trucks (FLTs), sack trucks, and pallet trucks are provided.

When assigned a task, follow these guidelines to ensure safety:

• • Think and observe: Can I complete this task safely? Do I need extra equipment?
  • Seek advice: Speak to your line manager if you are unsure.
  • Use mechanical aids: Is there a device available to help?
  • Check the environment: Is the area safe to complete the task? Do I need to clear space first?
  • Push, don’t pull: Pushing is generally safer and more effective than pulling.
  • Test the weight: Assess whether assistance is needed.
  • Beware of sharp edges: Ensure the load is safe to handle.
  • Clear the route: Make sure the pathway is free of obstructions.
  • Maintain proper posture:
    • Keep the load close to your body and avoid overreaching or stretching.
    • Breathe normally throughout the task.
  • Use your legs: When lifting or putting down a load, use your leg muscles as instructed during training.
  • Avoid twisting: Keep your shoulders in line with your hips. If turning is necessary, move your entire body.
  • Smooth movements: Avoid jerking motions; aim for controlled and steady actions.
  • Never use untrained equipment: Only operate equipment you are trained to use.

Accidents in the workplace can lead to injuries, disabilities, fatalities, and cause financial and reputational damage to businesses. It is essential to take proactive measures to prevent them. Here are some key steps:

1. Train employees: Ensure all staff receive proper training on equipment, machinery, and handling hazardous materials.
2. Provide proper equipment: Supply suitable personal protective equipment, and ensure it is regularly maintained.
3. Keep work areas clean: A tidy workspace reduces the risk of accidents like slips, trips, and falls.
4. Conduct regular safety audits: Regularly review the workplace for potential hazards.
5. Encourage hazard reporting: Employees should be encouraged to report hazards they identify.
6. Respond quickly to hazards: Address any identified hazards promptly to reduce risks.
7. Conduct ongoing safety training: Regular safety training helps employees stay informed on preventing accidents.

Conclusion: Prioritising workplace safety through these measures creates a safer and more productive environment, protecting employees and reducing potential costs.