Blog Articles | Safety Supply Company Incorporated

Blog Articles

Results: 11 - 20 of 46
15 30 45 ALL

In the fast-paced and dynamic environments of today's workplaces, the significance of general safety standards cannot be overstated. These standards serve as the bedrock of a secure and healthy work environment, ensuring the well-being of employees and safeguarding against potential hazards. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of general safety standards, exploring how they contribute to workplace wellness and why adherence to these standards is crucial.

Protecting Employees

At the heart of any organization lies its most valuable asset – its workforce. General safety standards play a pivotal role in protecting employees from preventable accidents and injuries. By establishing guidelines for safe practices and providing the necessary training, organizations create an environment where employees can perform their duties without the constant threat of harm.

Safety standards cover a broad spectrum, encompassing everything from proper lifting techniques to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). These measures are not only designed to prevent immediate accidents but also to promote long-term health and well-being. Adhering to safety protocols reduces the risk of chronic health issues related to repetitive strain or exposure to harmful substances, fostering a workforce that is both productive and healthy.

Legal Compliance and Reputation Management

In addition to ensuring the welfare of employees, compliance with general safety standards is often a legal requirement. Government regulations and industry-specific guidelines mandate certain safety measures to be in place, and failure to adhere to these standards can result in legal consequences and financial penalties. Staying compliant not only protects the organization from legal troubles but also contributes to a positive public image.

Maintaining a strong safety record enhances an organization's reputation, both within the industry and among potential clients and customers. Companies that prioritize safety demonstrate a commitment to ethical business practices and employee well-being. This commitment can be a distinguishing factor in a competitive marketplace, attracting top talent and earning the trust of stakeholders.

Enhancing Productivity and Reducing Costs

Contrary to a common misconception, investing in safety standards is not a drain on resources but rather a strategic move that pays dividends in the long run. A safe workplace is an efficient one, as it minimizes disruptions caused by accidents and injuries. When employees feel secure in their work environment, they are more likely to be engaged and focused on their tasks, leading to increased productivity.

Moreover, adherence to safety standards helps control operational costs. Preventing accidents reduces expenses related to medical treatment, compensation claims, and legal fees. The financial impact of accidents extends beyond immediate costs, as productivity losses, increased insurance premiums, and potential damage to equipment or property can also take a toll. By investing in safety, organizations create a protective shield against these hidden financial risks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, general safety standards are the backbone of a thriving and sustainable workplace. Beyond mere compliance, these standards contribute to the overall well-being of employees, protect organizations from legal ramifications, and enhance their reputation in the marketplace. Embracing a safety-first mentality not only fosters a culture of care and responsibility but also leads to increased productivity and cost savings. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of work, let us not underestimate the power of prioritizing safety – a fundamental aspect that paves the way for success and prosperity.

 

Walking or running consistently can be great exercise, however, if you choose to exercise in the late evening or at night there are some safety measures you should take. Safety should always be a top priority, and whether you're walking home after work, exercising, or just enjoying the night air, following some simple guidelines can ensure a safe journey. Here are a few tips on how to stay secure while walking at night.

1. Plan Your Route in Advance: Before stepping out, take a moment to plan your route. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoiding shortcuts through tracks or isolated places. Having a well-thought-out plan can make a significant difference in your overall safety.

2. Be Visible: Visibility is key to staying safe at night. Wear reflective clothing or accessories, (like the Reflective Sash at Safety Supply Co.) and consider carrying a flashlight or wearing a headlamp to ensure that you are easily seen by motorists and pedestrians alike. Bright colors are also advisable, as they enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

3. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: While exercising outside at night, it's crucial to stay alert and aware. Avoid distractions such as staring at your phone or listening to loud music. Keep your senses sharp and be attentive to the environment around you. This heightened awareness will help you react quickly to any potential threats or hazards.

4. Use a Buddy System: If possible, walk or run with a friend or in a group. There is safety in numbers, and having company can deter potential threats. If being alone is unavoidable, inform someone you trust about your route and expected arrival time.

5. Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, change your route or seek help immediately. Trusting your gut can be a powerful tool in avoiding potential dangers.

6. Use Designated Crosswalks: When crossing streets, always use designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals. Be mindful of oncoming traffic, and make eye contact with drivers when possible. Following traffic rules reduces the risk of accidents and enhances overall pedestrian safety.

7. Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged and easily accessible. In case of an emergency, having a functional phone can be a lifeline. Make sure you have important contacts saved, including local emergency services and trusted friends or family members.

8. Be Mindful of Your Valuables: Minimize the risk of theft by keeping valuables such as smartphones, jewelry, and wallets out of plain sight. Use a crossbody bag or a backpack with zippers to secure your belongings.

By planning your route, being visible, staying aware of your surroundings, and employing personal safety measures, you can significantly reduce the potential risks associated with nighttime strolls. Prioritize your safety, trust your instincts, and embrace the tranquility of the night with confidence.

 

Construction sites are dynamic environments where various activities take place simultaneously, creating an atmosphere of productivity. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, safety must always be the top priority. Construction site safety is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to protect the well-being of all individuals involved. In this blog, we'll delve into the critical aspects of construction site safety, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures and a culture of vigilance.

  1. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification:

The foundation of construction site safety lies in a thorough risk assessment. Before any work begins, it's crucial to identify potential hazards and assess the risks associated with each task. This includes evaluating the site's layout, materials, equipment, and the environment. Regular inspections and hazard identification reviews should be conducted to address emerging risks promptly.

  1. Proper Training and Qualifications:

Construction workers must be adequately trained and possess the necessary qualifications for their assigned tasks. This includes training on equipment operation, understanding safety protocols, and recognizing potential hazards. Regular refresher courses can help ensure that all workers are up-to-date with the latest safety practices and regulations.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

The use of appropriate PPE is non-negotiable on construction sites. Hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility clothing are just a few examples of essential protective gear. Providing and enforcing the use of PPE helps minimize the risk of injuries related to falling objects, electrical hazards, and other potential dangers. (Check out www.safetysupplyco.com or call us at 246.426.4935 to speak to a Sales Representative for help getting the appropriate PPE for your needs.)

  1. Fall Protection:

Falls are a leading cause of construction site injuries. Implementing fall protection measures, such as guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems, is crucial for working at heights. Workers should also be trained on the correct use of fall protection equipment and regularly inspect their gear for any signs of wear or damage.

  1. Electrical Safety:

Construction sites often involve the extensive use of electrical equipment and wiring. Ensuring proper grounding and regularly inspecting electrical tools and cords are essential practices to prevent electrical accidents. Workers should also be educated on the potential hazards of working with electricity and how to respond in case of an emergency.

  1. Heavy Equipment Operation:

Construction sites are synonymous with heavy machinery, and proper operation is paramount. Equipment operators must be trained and certified, and all machinery should undergo regular maintenance checks. Establishing clear communication protocols between equipment operators and ground personnel further reduces the risk of accidents.

  1. Emergency Response Planning:

A well-defined emergency response plan is a cornerstone of construction site safety. This includes procedures for handling accidents, first aid protocols, and the availability of emergency exits. Regular drills and training sessions ensure that all workers are familiar with the emergency response plan, allowing for a swift and coordinated reaction in case of unforeseen events.

Construction site safety is a collective responsibility that requires commitment from everyone involved – from project managers and engineers to on-site workers. By prioritizing risk assessment, adequate training, and the implementation of safety measures, construction sites can create a secure environment conducive to productivity and well-being. Ultimately, a strong safety culture not only prevents accidents but also fosters a sense of responsibility and care that resonates throughout the construction industry.

 

Working outdoors is no easy feat- not only is the work physically demanding, but you also have to contend with the elements.

Especially during our hurricane season, the weather can be unpredictable. Leaving home when it is sunny, can easily turn into being caught in a torrential shower of rain. 

 

The weather can change your working conditions. For example, if you work in agriculture, working in a field that is dry while the sun is out can become a slippery and hazardous zone when it rains.

 

Being prepared to manage any of nature’s whimsies can make a difference in safety on the job.

 

When planning jobs or projects for the outdoors, you should never underestimate the effect that the weather element will have on the productivity or completion of the work.

Consider the time of year that your project will be underway and how that can affect the materials or safety on the job site. 

For instance, mixing cement in the rain can weaken its composition if too much water is added to the mixture, changing wind speeds can affect hoisting equipment or even the maneuverability of heavy equipment like cranes, or depending on the severity of the weather (e.g. hurricane warnings) you may be forced to halt operations and this can delay deadlines.

 

The safety of the worker and the job site can be supported by proper planning for these types of phenomena, where there is less pressure to work in hazardous conditions owing to the weather because the elements affecting productivity have already been taken into account.

 

In addition to proper project planning, as with all aspects of safety, people should use common sense when coping with the weather at work. Employees should, for instance, refrain from skylarking in the rain or near wet machinery, or if it is hot outside take frequent water breaks to regulate their body temperatures.

 

Employees should exercise their judgment if they feel that the weather is presenting a threat to their health and safety, and employers should ensure that they have the ability to do so.

 

Companies that operate services outdoors should implement policies that empower their employees to make sound judgments regarding their safety outdoors. This can include:

 

  • Outlining a break policy for working in the heat and sun
  • Ensuring the proper safety attire is required and provided
  • Provide sheltered areas where possible from the elements (rain and sun)
  • Provide training on recognizing the signs of heat stroke 
  • Provide adequate water stations where possible or require staff to have proper hydration options (e.g. water bottles)

Some best practices for employees working outside are:

  • Check the weather forecast daily 
  • Wear a broad brim hat to help alleviate the direct onslaught of heat to their head
  • Use a cooling towel around your neck
  • Keep a change of clothes in case they are caught in the rain so that they do not stay in wet clothing
  • Wear safety shoes that can transition with the weather, for example, slip-resistant and waterproof
  • Take plenty of water throughout the day

 

For safety supplies to help you stay on top of the weather element on the job, shop at Safety Supply Co! Visit us online at www.safetysupplyco.com, in-store, or contact a Sales Representative today by calling 246.426.4935!

If someone requires emergency care, being able to provide first aid immediately can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.

First aid can range from something as minor as applying a band-aid to a cut to life-saving measures such as performing CPR. It is usually performed immediately following an incident where the affected individual has sustained injury and the emergency services have not arrived yet.

With recent studies suggesting that one-quarter of Barbadian adults suffer from noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or respiratory issues, having first aid equipment and products on hand should be a necessary function of your safety measures within the workplace.

Within the workplace, emergencies can occur at any time, and the working environment does not necessarily have to be a “high-risk” environment (i.e., filled with dangerous machinery or materials, etc.) for this to occur.

Every organization needs to have a first aid kit on hand that is situated near the working space. For example, if you have several floors in your office building, then you should have a first aid kit on each floor, for ease of access when needed.

To determine where the first aid kit should go and the type of first aid materials needed, you should conduct a First Aid Safety Assessment on your organization.

This assessment should include:

·      The potential risks of your environment- chemical risk, fall risk, etc.

·      The location of your business from the assistance of the emergency services.

·      The health needs of your employees (are any asthmatic, have diabetes, etc.)

·      The size of your organization.

·      The potential needs of non-employees (visitors to the company).

·      Whether there are trained or first aid certified members of staff (if you have shift work, there should at least be one member on each shift that is trained in first aid)

·      The number of company vehicles that need to be outfitted with a first aid kit (especially the vehicles like delivery trucks, that employees spend large amounts of time in, as the risk of needing first aid while in the vehicle would be higher.)

In addition to having the appropriate first aid equipment, employees should receive proper first aid training, as injuries can be exasperated if care is provided by someone who doesn’t know what they are doing. Ideally, there should be at least one employee at each site, floor, and on each shift that oversees maintaining and distributing the first aid apparatus and care.

Health and Safety Committees in the workplace can assist in building the knowledge base of the employees by facilitating training drills and disseminating information on the first aid materials available at the workplace. Sharing this information can help reduce the time spent wondering if the care can even be provided by the available equipment or if they need to head straight to a hospital. Remember, every second counts in an emergency.

First aid is an invaluable skill for the workplace and oftentimes the difference between life and death. Do not underestimate the need for this knowledge, for as with all safety equipment and skills, you never know how important it is until it is needed.

You can visit Safety Supply Co. online to view our range of first aid kits and supplies.

With businesses on the road to recovery from Covid-19, the prediction of a 65% chance of an above-average hurricane season by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) must weigh heavily upon the minds of business owners.One way of alleviating that pressure is to ensure you properly prepare for the upcoming season. You can do this by conducting a risk assessment.

 

“A risk assessment is defined as a systematic process of evaluating the potential risks that may be involved in a projected activity or undertaking.”

 

In this case, it’s no secret that the hurricane season occurs from June 1-Nov 30. What cannot be accurately predicted, however, is the damage you will personally incur in the event of inclement weather; therefore, your assessment needs to be comprehensive to cover all eventualities.

 

Who should conduct this assessment?

Ideally, members of your safety committee which should comprise of a cross-section of representatives from the different areas of the company. This is to ensure that there are persons who have intimate knowledge of what is needed to secure each area.

 

A comprehensive risk assessment should cover all aspects and areas of safety concern within your organization:

 

A property assessment- This involves checking the physical location of your business for areas that are vulnerable to damage or in current need of repair. It should also include determining the timeframe needed to secure the areas and at what level of bad weather would you need to do so.

 

A contingency plan to secure your data and inventory- Whether you maintain your company's data in a physical place or on the cloud, you should have a secure backup of the data. If your firm relies on inventory, you'll need a plan in place to protect it from damage, such as waterproof covering or elevation in flood-prone locations.

 

Training programs- When you develop your emergency plans, companies should facilitate training exercises so that all members of staff are aware of the procedures and can act appropriately when required.

 

An emergency communication network strategy- Do you have the most up-to-date contact information for all employees and are they aware of how they will receive information from the company in the event of an emergency? Who oversees disseminating the information? What role does each employee play in this strategy? This information is crucial to ensure timely notifications and communication between the company and it’s employees.

 

An evacuation plan- During hurricane season, bad weather is not the only concern- there are other hazards to consider. Maybe there’s a high wind and it causes a powerline to snap, leading to a fire near your warehouse. You need to have an evacuation plan that allows your employees to safely vacate the premises. This should also include a “muster point” where employees gather for a rollcall to confirm everyone who was on the premises has exited safely.

 

While the aforementioned areas should be included within your risk assessment, you can add or subtract focal points as necessary to fit the needs of organization.

Don’t wait for the emergency to happen, preparation is key to surviving an emergency with minimal impact.

 

Visit Safety Supply Co. for your hurricane preparedness safety products.

May is globally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. Unlike physical ailments of the body, it may be harder to recognize when our colleagues or employees are afflicted by mental malady.

 

Why should you care about mental health within the workplace?

 

Besides looking at it from a humanitarian perspective, it’s just good economic sense. Unhappy employees are less productive, take more time off, and make for an uneasy working environment.

 

In the UK, according to The Workplace Health Report 2022, poor mental health was cited as impacting productivity in 1 of every 5 employees.

 

Employees with a healthy and balanced mental health and mindset are active and willing participants in the growth of the business. Those who believe that they are working in a positive, inclusive, open, and trustworthy environment that values their contribution are overall happier employees.

 

Within this post, we’re providing tips to help you recognize when a member of staff is struggling to cope and ways to optimize your working environment to promote good mental health.

 

Ways to recognize when someone is dealing with mental health difficulties:

 

·  Increased or prolonged periods of sadness or irritability

·  Sudden or inexplicable changes in behavior

·  Inability to make decisions, where they could before

·  Excessive nervousness

·  Loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed

·  Mistakes or errors in their work

 

How can you make the workplace an environment that promotes mental health? Here are some questions (and solutions) for you to consider:

 

  1. Do your employees feel comfortable discussing their work challenges with you? For example, are your employees comfortable telling you that they have a lot on their plate or that they need help? Regularly checking in with your employees and colleagues about their well-being in the workplace, with a genuine interest in supporting a positive mindset or alleviating a negative outlook, can stimulate an optimistic mental health stance regarding their working environment.Do your employees feel heard?
  2. Do you take into account the suggestions or the voice of the employees when making decisions that affect them? Failure to include them may lead to an increase in stress among the employees if they continually have to adapt to decisions that affect their ability to do their job effectively. Creating an anonymous suggestion box or survey can help you receive input from the employees- the key is to take their valid suggestions into consideration and have a conversation with those who best know their job and all it entails on how to improve the workplace.
  3. Have you provided a satisfactory environment to work within? This includes providing the proper tools for the employees to complete their tasks, ensuring the safety risks are limited, and even providing resources and learning opportunities for growth.
  4. Is your working environment strictly a “come do the job and go home” type of environment, or do you provide opportunities for socializing and recognition of achievement among staff? These could be in the form of team building events or outings, implementing award systems, or providing welcoming spaces for employees to take a break during the day.
  5. Are you setting realistic obligations for your employees to achieve? With a target or a deadline, while they can promote productivity and focus, they can become detrimental to the mental health of an employee if you are setting your targets too high or deadlines too short. You run the risk of creating undue pressure and stress on your employees. As your business grows, you should assess where possible the existing workload of your employees to ascertain if it is manageable and make plans accordingly- such as whether or not to hire more help, implementing ways of streamlining systems or automating the processes where possible.

Ultimately, to promote an environment that encourages good mental health and positive mindsets, you should ensure that all employees feel valued, supported, heard, and safe, both from management and among their colleagues.

World Day of Safety and Health at Work is observed on April 28 annually. This year the theme is “Act together to build a positive safety and health culture.”

 

It’s a fitting theme, for as we continue to weather the global pandemic, organizations are increasingly aware that it is every member’s responsibility to assistin maintaining a safe environment for each other- no one entity can shoulder that accountability alone. It needs to stem from every level of the organization and be supported at a national level, with each entity working hand in hand to create a safety culture.

 

Before we go any further you might be wondering what is a “safety culture?”

At an organizational level, it is the collective attitude, values, and mindset of an organization’s members towards safety. At a national level, it is developed in the policies and legislations regarding safety.

 

So, how do you cultivate this type of culture?

 

Well, what is poignant about this theme is that it really does take a village (or an organization!) acting together to raise the awareness of and encapsulate the need for safety and health within the workplace.

 

At an executive managerial level, it begins with setting policies toward safety and ensuring that the physicality of the workplace, such as the building, equipment, and environment meets the required standards of use.

 

With mid-level managers, their contribution to workplace safety can be found in promoting compliance with the established policies, listening to and addressing the concerns of the employees regarding their health and safety challenges, and ensuring timely investigations into safety-related issues.

The employees play a role by adhering to the rules, taking care in their work and making regular checks of their equipment, acting mindfully within their environment and with their colleagues.

Governments can contribute to safe environments by working with organizations to implement national policies and regulations for how organizations should operate within parameters that safeguard the lives of their working citizens.

 

As each organism plays a role in developing the safety culture, the roles should be accompanied by the following characteristics:

· Open Communication- All members must feel comfortable in sharing their concerns and solutions for safety measures within the workplace. 

· Trust- Persons should be able to trust their co-workers to always practice safety measures.

· Respect- Within safety, it requires the input and effort of all employees in the organization, therefore treating others, regardless of their station in the organization, with respect can go a long way to ensuring compliance with safety measures. 

· Appreciation- Safety is a continuous battle. It must be diligently practiced and maintained to become routine, where, if it’s done correctly and no incidents have occurred, people can lose sight of the ‘why’ behind their efforts. Showing appreciation for acts of safety can ensure that staff keep up their efforts and keep 

 

Safety is in everyone’s job description- by acting together to build a positive safety and health culture, we ensure that persons not only stay alive and injury-free on the job but also thrive and enjoy their work.

 

---

Safety Supply Co. Inc. is the leading supplier of safety solutions and products in Barbados. Visit www.safetysupplco.com or contact us at 246.426.4935 or info@safetysupplyco.com

There are many face masks on the market, and due to how essential they are in our lives, choosing the right one for you is important.

Let's be honest, this has become a daunting task, as the mask mandates have evolved with the emergence of new variants of coronavirus (Covid-19). 

We previously did a post about the difference between a mask and a respirator, which you can read here.

With the current variant of Covid-19, Omicron, it is recommended by the CDC that you use surgical, N95, or KN95 respirators to protect your respiratory health. This is due to their level of filtration which makes them adept at capturing the infectious particles.

What is the difference between these masks? The KN95 and the N95 masks both filter and capture up to 95% of particles. Their main difference is that N95 is the U.S. standard, while the KN95 is the Chinese standard.

Surgical masks are best used to capture droplets more so than aerosolized particles, such as droplets shared from a sneeze; hence why they are mainly utilized in hospitals where persons have a higher risk of encountering that type of transmission.

These are proven to be more effective than the regular cloth masks which, depending on their material, can offer little to no protection from aerosolized particles. Most cloth masks also do not have filters embedded between the material. 

This video can help shed some light on why cloth masks aren’t particularly effective

Another important factor to consider when choosing a mask is the fit. Even a mask that filters 95% of the particles is only as effective as its fit. 

It should fit snugly around your nose and chin to form a seal on your face. There should be no gaps and the straps should be comfortable around your ears or head.

You should also avoid using any that contain a valve, as this can defeat the purpose of sealing the fit. 

Due to the high demand for masks globally, counterfeit masks have been entering the market. These masks may look like a legitimate N95, KN95, or surgical mask, however, they may not be NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) approved.

NIOSH approval means that the brand has tested the product (masks) to meet the industry standards, and has a stamp of approval that says it does what it claims to do.

How can you avoid buying counterfeit masks? The short answer-Never buy any mask that does not have the appropriate packaging with the standards printed visibly or come from sketchy suppliers. For a more detailed answer, visit the CDC website here.

If you are looking for either a mask or respirator that meets safety standards, Safety Supply Co. has a wide range from which you can choose. Visit www.safetysupplyco.com to get a mask or respirator to protect your respiratory health.

It takes a lot of skill to drive trucks, haulers, and buses. Drivers of these vehicles spend the majority of their day (and some nights) on the road, which can be both tiring and stressful as they traverse traffic.

 

As with any job, workplace safety should be paramount, and this rule of thumb applies when your workplace is a 300-ton moving vehicle, that has a higher rate of encountering unexpected situations.

 

Below are some tips to help your truckers stay safe on the job:

 

Maintain the vehicles properly.

Safety begins before your drivers even get into the vehicle. Keep a proper servicing schedule, address issues promptly, and never drive a vehicle that has an issue that can present a risk to your driver and other motorists.

 

Wear your seat belt.

It’s not only about safety, it’s also the law. In the unlikely event of an accident, seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury; and for truck drivers in the large cabin this can be a lifesaving function.

 

Drivers should practice defensive driving.

This form of driving encourages drivers to be on the lookout for potential hazards on the road, be mindful of their blind spots, drive with enough space between themselves and the cars in front of them, and brake early.

 

Drivers should avoid being distracted while driving.

Drivers can minimize their distractions by not taking passengers and not using their cellular phones while driving.

 

Adhere to the speed limits and rules of the road.

For drivers of massive vehicles, it’s especially important to adhere to the rules to minimize the potential risk hazard for themselves and others on the road.

 

Plan your route.

This can include listening out for traffic news, avoiding areas with construction, ‘tight’ fit for the vehicle, and being mindful of the weather.

 

Drivers should never do drugs or alcohol, especially before or during the job.

Driving while impaired invites danger for themselves and others, and is frankly, just plain irresponsible.

 

Drivers should get plenty of rest.

Never let your driver get behind the wheel tired, particularly, at night. When drivers are tired, their responses are slow, and they are operating at a diminished capacity. Ensure that your drivers take frequent breaks and are well-rested.

 

Drivers should always use their signals.

This allows other drivers on the road to be guided accordingly, minimizes the risk of collisions, and be properly informed as they drive behind or attempt to maneuver around the vehicle.

 

Keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit onboard the vehicle, in case of emergency.

 

Pages