FEATURES
47
You name it, construction, mining,
building, even in the normal office
environment and not to mention in
plumbing, safety issues are vital.
FACE MASKS
Projects that produce dust particles from sawing
or sanding call for a disposable face mask.
Heavier duty respiratory equipment may be
required in environments where the plumber
may be exposed to germs and chemicals. session or refresher course. Whether you
are a sole operator, small crew, or sizeable
operation, consider having an outside safety
professional check out how you work and
make any corrective suggestions. A little
prevention goes a long way.
SAFETY BOOTS
Plumbers work in wet environments, so there’s
always a risk of slip-and-fall injuries. Choose
non-skid soled work boots with protective toes. A final warning: use tools and equipment only
for the purposes they are intended. The correct
equipment will make the job simpler and more
straightforward. The wrong tool for the job can
lead to burns, electric shock, strains, sprains,
pulled muscles, and other injuries.
Associations concerned with workplace safety
advise keeping safety gear in good condition, so
it can do its intended job: reducing the incidence
of illness, injury, and death on the job. There
is no place to cut corners. The professionals
suggest investing in the best protection gear you
can afford, keeping it in good working order, and
disinfecting gear or discarding it after exposure
to chemicals and toxins.
Having a first aid kit on every vehicle is also a
good idea, and encourage supervisors to get
training on at least a level 1 first aid course.
INSPECT YOUR GEAR REGULARLY
Check the work truck for the presence of
safety equipment and the condition thereof —
worn-out or non-working equipment is not of
much use on the job. When equipment is old,
replace it immediately. Invest in top-of-the-line
equipment. That is an investment in your own
health and safety and that of your employees
or co-workers.
Do regular on-site checks of how work is
accomplished. You might spot a lapse in safe
working habits and the need for a training
Keep the following in mind:
• Your safety is your personal responsibility.
• Always follow the correct procedures.
• Never take shortcuts.
• Take responsibility and clean up if you
made a mess.
• Clean and organise your workspace.
• Ensure a clear and easy route to
emergency exits and equipment.
• Be alert and awake on the job.
• Be attentive at all times.
• When in doubt, contact your supervisor
or manager for instruction, guidance,
or training.
• Never take risks when it comes to safety.
• Obey safety signs, stickers, and tags.
• Take short breaks when you keep up
a repetitive motion for an extended
period of time, and sit, stand, or walk
with good posture.
• Report serious injuries immediately to a
supervisor and get emergency assistance.
• Keep things in perspective. Hazards may
be limitless, so focus on the most likely
risks first. PA
REFERENCES
https://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/aet12531
https://ehsdailyadvisor.blr.com/2011/10/10-tips-for-encouraging-ppe-compliance/
http://blog.lakeland.com/blog/improve-workplace-safety-with-proper-ppe-these-6-tips
www.plumbingafrica.co.za
September 2018 Volume 24 I Number 7