OSHA Guidelines for Workplace Safety: How to Prevent Complacency

As an employer, you are responsible for maintaining a safe workplace and protecting your employees from hazards. Safety Training & Compliance (STC) understands the importance of preserving human life through workplace safety. Here, we will discuss how to avoid complacency in safety practices and keep your employees safe from STC:

The Quickest Way to Reduce Safety Performance is Complacency

Complacency is a dangerous enemy of workplace safety. When employees become too comfortable with their surroundings, they may overlook safety protocols and become less vigilant in identifying hazards. Regular safety training and education are critical to keeping safety practices top of mind for your employees. STC offers various safety training programs designed to meet OSHA guidelines and help prevent complacency.

The Importance of Constant Reinforcement

To avoid complacency, it’s essential to reinforce safety practices frequently. Safety messages should be communicated clearly and regularly through safety meetings, safety memos, or even daily toolbox talks. Employees should also be encouraged to identify and report safety hazards. STC can assist you in developing safety protocols and training programs that constantly reinforce safety practices.

Creating a Culture of Workplace Safety

Creating a culture of safety is critical to avoiding complacency in safety practices. When safety is a priority, it becomes a habit. Employees should be encouraged to report safety hazards, and safety should be a part of your company’s core values. This can be achieved through safety training, safety messaging, and recognition of employees who promote safety. STC can assist you in creating a safety culture that emphasizes the importance of safety in the workplace.

At STC, we understand the importance of avoiding complacency in safety practices to keep your employees safe. By providing regular safety training and reinforcement, you can help prevent complacency and create a safety culture. Remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility, and it’s up to all of us to prioritize it in the workplace. Want to learn more about avoiding complacency in workplace safety practices? Check out our blog today!

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Ensuring Safety in the Workplace: The Importance of Safety Records and Training

At Safety Training & Compliance (STC), our mission is to create safer workplaces for employees and preserve human life through workplace safety. We believe a safe work environment is a legal requirement and a moral obligation for all employers. To achieve this, it is important to follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and maintain safety records to help prevent workplace accidents and injuries.

Keeping Accurate Safety Records

Accurate safety records are essential in identifying potential hazards and tracking progress toward a safer workplace. This includes keeping track of incidents, near-misses, and employee training records. These records help employers identify areas where improvement is needed and provide evidence that they are ensuring a safe work environment. Furthermore, in the event of an OSHA inspection, having accurate records can demonstrate compliance with safety regulations and prevent costly fines.

The Benefits of Employee Training

Training is an essential component of workplace safety. Providing employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs safely can help prevent accidents and injuries. Training should include new and existing employees who may need to update their skills or be introduced to new procedures and technologies. Regular training can also create a workplace safety culture and improve employee morale.

Effective Safety Training Programs

Effective safety training programs should be comprehensive and tailored to the workplace’s specific needs. This may include training on personal protective equipment, proper lifting techniques, and emergency response procedures. In addition, training should be interactive and involve hands-on demonstrations and simulations to help employees better understand the importance of safety in their work.

In conclusion, ensuring safety in the workplace is a shared responsibility between employers and employees. Maintaining accurate safety records and providing practical employee training are essential components of a safe work environment. At STC, we are committed to helping employers meet their safety obligations and create safer workplaces for their employees.

Want to learn more about ensuring safety in the workplace? Check out our blog today.

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Creating Safer Workplaces: The Purpose and Value of Incident Investigations

As safety consultants, we understand that accidents, injuries, and near misses can be stressful, frustrating, and even scary for everyone involved. However, it’s important to remember that incident investigations serve a vital purpose in preserving human life through workplace safety. Here’s what you need to know about the purpose and value of incident investigations from STC:

The Importance of Following OSHA Guidelines

At STC, we know that OSHA requires employers to conduct accident investigations for all OSHA-recordable injuries. Additionally, insurance providers require incident documentation for incidents that result in or may result in a claim. But incident investigations serve a much greater purpose than just fulfilling legal requirements.

The Prime Objective: Preventing Future Incidents

The primary objective of an incident investigation is to prevent future incidents. It’s not about placing blame or applying discipline. Incident investigations help us gather factual information about who, what, where, when, and how an incident occurred. Once this information is collected, we can analyze the incident and identify the root causes.

Analyzing Root Causes: A Deeper Look

Root causes are the underlying reasons for an incident. For example, if an employee cuts their hand because they weren’t wearing gloves while handling sharp material, it may seem like simple employee negligence. However, upon further analysis, it may be revealed that the employee needed to be provided with gloves, or the supervisor never wears gloves and doesn’t require their team to wear them. In this case, it would require re-evaluating our training program and identifying new corrective actions.

Sharing Valuable Lessons Learned

We must share valuable lessons learned with the entire company and our peers. In the construction industry, workers and crews are divided across a geographic area and may have yet to contact those on-site where the incident occurred. Likely, the same problems you’re experiencing on one site are also happening on others.

In conclusion, incident investigations serve a vital purpose in preserving human life through workplace safety. They are not about placing blame or applying discipline but instead identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions to prevent future incidents. At STC, we strive to create safer workplaces by following OSHA guidelines and sharing lessons learned.

Want to learn more about incident investigations? Check out our blog today.

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STC Case Study: Safety Measures Lead to Significant Savings for Glass Contractor

A family-owned glazing contractor recently experienced a surge in growth, but with it came a string of accidents and rising insurance premiums. This blog will explore the company’s challenges and the solutions STC implemented to create a safer, more cost-effective business. Here’s everything you need to know about how STC improved performance for our client:

The Challenges Presented

The sudden growth of the glass contractor led to a high frequency of Workers’ Compensation and Auto claims, including some severe incidents. As a result, their insurance premiums increased considerably for the next two years. We set out to help them improve their safety procedures to save our client money and, more importantly, save lives.

A Universal Solution

STC implemented monthly executive safety performance meetings and employee safety training courses to establish a more safety-conscious culture. They also conducted regular and frequent safety inspections and near-miss investigations to prevent further claims. STC introduced Swingle Collins & Associates to the client as a new insurance broker, who fully engaged and utilized STC’s services for future insurance renewals.

The Impact of STC

STC and Swingle Collins assisted the glass contractor in reducing their Experience Modification Rating (EMR) from 1.88 to 0.77. Through consistent awareness of STC’s safety initiatives, Swingle Collins leveraged key documentation, which helped lead to significant insurance savings for the client. The glass contractor has experienced a 53% price decrease in Workers’ Compensation (WC) rates since STC and Swingle Collins joined forces.

The glass contractor’s fast growth presented challenges, but with the help of STC and Swingle Collins, they could implement effective safety solutions that not only improved their overall performance but also resulted in significant insurance savings. By prioritizing safety, the company could continue growing without sacrificing its employees’ well-being or the business’s financial health. Want to learn more about STC? Check out our blog today!

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Conducting a Hazard Assessment: A Step-by-Step Guide for Worksites

Hazard assessment is a critical process for ensuring the safety and health of workers at any work site. It involves identifying potential hazards that could cause injury or illness and implementing measures to control or mitigate them. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hazard assessment is the first step in establishing a comprehensive safety and health program. In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on conducting a hazard assessment at your worksite. Here’s a guide from the experts at STC:

Step 1: Gather Information and Assess the Worksite

Before starting the hazard assessment process, gathering as much information as possible about the worksite and the tasks being performed is important. This may include reviewing safety records, consulting employees and supervisors, and observing work practices. It’s also a good idea to check any relevant regulations or industry standards to ensure that you’re aware of all the potential hazards that may be present at the worksite.

Step 2: Identify the Hazards

Once you understand the worksite and the tasks being performed, the next step is to identify the potential hazards. This can be done through various methods, such as brainstorming sessions with employees, conducting a worksite walk-through, and reviewing accident and injury records. It’s important to involve employees in this process, as they may be aware of hazards that management has not identified.

Step 3: Evaluate the Risks Associated with the Hazards

Once you have identified the potential hazards at the worksite, the next step is to evaluate the risks associated with each hazard. This will involve considering the likelihood of the hazard occurring and the potential consequences if it does occur. For example, a hazard with a high likelihood of occurring and could result in severe injury or death would be considered a high-risk hazard. In contrast, a hazard with a low likelihood of occurring and minimal consequences would be considered a low-risk hazard.

Step 4: Implement Controls to Mitigate the Risks

Once you have identified and evaluated the risks associated with the hazards at the worksite, the next step is to implement controls to mitigate those risks. This may involve a variety of measures, such as providing protective equipment, instituting safety protocols, or implementing engineering controls to eliminate or reduce the hazard. It’s important to prioritize the implementation of controls based on the level of risk, with higher-risk hazards being addressed first.

Step 5: Review and Update the Hazard Assessment Regularly

The hazard assessment process is not a one-time event but should be ongoing, regularly reviewed, and updated as needed. This may involve revisiting the worksite and reassessing the hazards, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of the controls that have been implemented. By conducting regular hazard assessments, you can ensure that your worksite remains safe and healthy for all employees.

No matter how you choose to prepare your workplace for hazard assessments, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about conducting a hazard assessment at your worksite? Check out our blog today!

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The Most Effective Ways to Give Construction Safety Briefings

At STC, we believe that construction safety briefings are an essential part of any construction project. They provide an opportunity for project managers and supervisors to communicate important safety information to workers, and ensure that everyone is aware of the potential hazards and risks that may be present on the job site. But how can you ensure that your safety briefings are effective and provide the necessary information to keep workers safe? Here are nine tips for giving an effective construction safety briefing from the safety experts here at STC:

  1. Make them interactive: Construction safety briefings should not be a one-way lecture. Encourage participation from workers by asking questions, soliciting feedback, and allowing for discussion. This helps to engage workers and ensure that they are paying attention and understanding the information being presented during the construction safety briefing.
  2. Keep them concise: No one wants to sit through a long, tedious construction safety briefing. Keep your briefings as short and to-the-point as possible, focusing on the most important information.
  3. Use visual aids: People often retain information better when it is presented visually. Consider using visual aids such as slides, videos, or demonstrations to help illustrate important points during the construction safety briefing.
  4. Make them relevant: Make sure that the information presented in the construction safety briefing is relevant to the specific tasks and risks faced by the workers in attendance. This helps to ensure that the information is applicable and useful to them.
  5. Review frequently: Safety protocols and procedures can change, so it is important to review safety information regularly through construction safety briefings. Consider scheduling regular construction safety briefings to review and update workers on any new or revised procedures.
  6. Encourage questions: Encourage workers to ask questions during the construction safety briefing, and make sure to take the time to answer them thoroughly. This helps to ensure that workers have a clear understanding of the information being presented and can ask for clarification if needed.
  7. Follow up: After the construction safety briefing, follow up with workers to ensure that they understand the information and are implementing it on the job. Consider setting aside time for one-on-one training or coaching if needed.

No matter how you choose to create engaging safety briefings, STC is here to ensure that you have all of the tools you need. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Why You Should Update Your End-of-Year Safety Plans and Procedures

As the end of the year approaches, it’s important to take some time to review and update your workplace safety plans and procedures. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, taking a few minutes to review and update your safety protocols can help ensure a safe and healthy work environment for your employees. Here’s everything you need to know about updating your end-of-year safety plans and procedures with STC:

Identifying Potential Risks and Hazards

One of the key benefits of regularly reviewing and updating your safety plans and procedures is that it helps to identify potential risks and hazards that may have been overlooked in the past. This can include everything from identifying new types of equipment or materials that may pose a risk, to identifying changes in the way work is being carried out that may have introduced new hazards. By proactively identifying and addressing these risks, you can help prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Creating Awareness Around Safety

Another benefit of updating your safety plans and procedures is that it helps to ensure that your employees are aware of the latest safety protocols and procedures. This is especially important as new employees may not be familiar with the specific protocols and procedures in place at your workplace. By providing regular training and updates on safety procedures, you can help ensure that your employees are prepared to work safely and effectively.

Keeping Up with Equipment and Supplies

In addition to reviewing and updating your safety plans and procedures, it’s also important to ensure that all of your safety equipment and supplies are in good working order. This includes things like fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and personal protective equipment (PPE). By regularly checking and replacing any damaged or expired equipment, you can help ensure that your employees have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job.

No matter how you choose to prepare your workplace for 2023, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Winter Safety Tips to Keep Employees Safe in Harsh Weather

As the winter season approaches, it’s important to take steps to ensure the safety of your employees in harsh weather conditions. From snow and ice to freezing temperatures, there are a number of hazards that can arise during the winter months. Here are a few winter safety tips to keep in mind as you work to keep your employees safe during this time of year from STC:

Dress for the Season

Encourage employees to dress appropriately for the weather. This includes wearing layers to stay warm, as well as waterproof and slip-resistant boots or shoes to prevent falls on icy surfaces.

Create a Game Plan

Have a plan in place for employees who need to work outside in cold weather. This might include providing warm shelter, access to hot beverages, and frequent breaks to come inside and warm up.

Clear Any Potential Dangers

Ensure that all outdoor walkways and parking lots are cleared of snow and ice. This will help prevent slips and falls, as well as make it easier for employees to get to and from their vehicles safely.

Always Stay Prepared

Have a supply of rock salt or other ice-melting chemicals on hand to treat slippery surfaces. This will help to make walkways and parking lots safer for employees and customers.

Discourage Dehydration

Encourage employees to stay hydrated, as the cold weather can lead to dehydration. Make sure that there is plenty of water available, and encourage employees to drink frequently throughout the day.

Stay Vigilant of Weather Changes

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for adverse conditions. This might include having a plan in place for employees who may need to leave work early or come in late due to dangerous driving conditions.

By following these winter safety tips, you can help keep your employees safe during the colder months. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to safety, so don’t wait until a problem arises to take action.

No matter how you choose to prepare your employees for winter, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for the new season. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Celebrating National Preparedness Month with Emergency Response Tips from STC

At STC, we are dedicated to helping our clients be as prepared as possible for whatever may come their way. Natural disasters, routine illnesses and workplace fatalities are all emergencies that can completely uproot a job site if you aren’t prepared. Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating National Preparedness Month the right way with STC:

National Preparedness Month

Each year, we observe this month as a chance to spread awareness about the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. Depending on which part of the country you are in, you know which natural disasters pose the biggest threat. Spend the month thinking ahead by preparing for those natural disasters you know could strike at any moment. You’ll be glad you did if anything should occur!

Making Plans to Stay Safe

From tornadoes in Texas to hurricanes in Florida, there are plenty of natural disasters that have the ability to completely dismantle our everyday lives. We believe it’s always best to stay prepared for anything that may come your way, no matter the situation.

Do you know where to evacuate in case of an emergency?

Do you have emergency grab-and-go kits prepared?

Do you have a plan for pets in case of emergency?

These are essential questions to ask yourself in honor of National Preparedness Month! Make the most of this month by making sure you are always prepared for anything.

Workplace Safety Programs

No matter what kind of industry you’re in, establishing a workplace safety program can save you time and money down the road. These programs are geared to prevent injuries, illnesses, and even deaths on the job, as well as stopping financial hardships and suffering often experienced by workers and their families, as well as the company. If you’re struggling to develop a workplace safety program that puts employees first, STC is always here to help!

No matter how you choose to prepare your employees for potential dangers, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help prepare your employees for every situation. Want to learn more about celebrating National Preparedness Month? Check out our blog today!

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Celebrating Saul Piña, a Prime Example of STC Safety Excellence

At STC, we believe in celebrating those that take safety as seriously as possible. One of our employees working for our Georgia branch, Saul Piña, is a prime example of the kind of safety excellence that we strive to achieve with every job. Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating Saul and all that he does to keep our clients, employees and himself safe on the job:

About Saul Piña & STC

Saul brings a diverse skill set derived from his rapid exposure to our growing portfolio of high-profile clients and the strategic alliances we have formed with them. Saul is an energetic and passionate Spanish-speaking safety professional that always works to achieve more. He is not only an Authorized OSHA instructor, but also an official CERTA Roof Torch instructor.

Saul has been with STC for over a year now, with half of his time spent under the title of Field Manager, and the other half as Relationship Manager. The responsibilities of an employee at STC are often hard to define one by one, but easily quantified by the following: Everything we do must center around preserving the world’s most precious resource – human life.

A Day in the Life of STC Safety

Our responsibilities take many shapes and forms. This could be a site job site visit at 2:30 A.M. to make sure a concrete pour is running safely or training on different equipment such as forklift, boom lift, spyder lift or a torching apparatus. This could be asking an employee to stop work immediately because his life is in danger, and it could also be quickly putting your hand on their back and showing them there is a better way. The responsibilities at STC are many, but they all lead to one goal. Protecting the lives of employees in various industries, no matter what.

“Just like I do, I know there are many workers that leave their house knowing that there are people there who are expecting them to make it back every day. There are children, spouses, families, or partners that are awaiting the return of that employee. Workplace safety transcends beyond the income that the worker brings home. Workplace safety does not equal money or revenue. Workplace safety equals smiles, hugs, fun weekends, trips, vacations, graduations and a myriad of other things. Approximately 4,500 people were involved in an occupational fatality, without workplace safety that number increases exponentially! Meanwhile, all that was listed before, decreases.” – Saul Piña

No matter how you choose to celebrate Sauls’s achievement and dedication to safety, STC is always here to help you make safety simple with an entire workforce committed to keeping people safe. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, instructor-led training and safety consulting services that will help build a safety culture around your business. Want to learn more about everything that our employees do to keep you safe? Check out our blog!

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