
Our safety initiatives for 2014 are all about improvement! We want to help affiliates improve and refine on our existing safeguards by providing key focus points for each focus area. In each issue of our Safety eNews this year, we’ll highlight one of the “Top 5” for both job sites and ReStores, and give useful ways to implement safety in that area. Here’s an outline of our Top 5 for job sites.
1) Volunteer & Staff Safety Training
- All volunteers complete online safety training course prior to volunteering
- Volunteer’s tasks are matched with their capabilities and skill-level
- Safety Manager(s) complete Competent Person training
2) Prevent Falls from Heights
- Certify use of a proper fall protection system for all roof and truss work (including work performed by subcontractors)
- Ensure proper ladder usage and maintenance
- Utilizing proper scaffolding construction and maintenance
3) Guard Unprotected Openings
- Openings in floors, roofs, windows, and trenches are properly covered
4) Proper Use of Power Tools
- Nail guns are used by qualified staff only
- Safety guards are attached to tools and tools are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
5) Prevent Slips and Trips on Job Sites
- Insides of houses and surrounding job site areas are free from tripping hazards such as nails, boards, construction scraps and power cords