How to Stay Safe in an Industrial Workplace
In the modern world, workplace accidents are less common thanks to improved safety regulations. However, as a worker, you still need to be careful to follow the correct procedures and avoid risks to stay safe. The last thing you want is to get injured at work, especially if it’s as a result of your own negligence. Industrial workplaces often feature heavy machinery and other dangerous equipment which can cause a serious risk to life if used incorrectly.
When joining a new workplace, you should receive the proper training to help you work safely. However, there are some additional tips you should follow to ensure you minimise the risk of accidents and injuries while at work.
Pay Attention to Warning Lights and Signs
Most industrial workplaces use beacon lights to warn of potential hazards and provide information on the status of machinery. Click here to see examples of the typical lights used in a workplace and the main features. The advantage of a light is that it can change colours, with each colour used to provide a different message. For example, a green light will indicate that all systems are working fine, while a red light will caution employees to stop immediately.
You should receive full details on what each light means and how its used during your training, and it’s a good idea to refresh your memory regularly. If you’re unsure of what a light means, don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor. Asking a question if always preferable to getting something wrong and causing an accident.
Signs are used in the same way as lights, although static signs can’t change. They’re often posted around the workplace to remind you of standard safety procedures and around dangerous equipment to give warnings. Always heed the information given by signs, as ignoring them could mean you’re liable if an accident occurs.
Wear the Correct Safety Gear
One of the most common signs found in an industrial workplace is one that reminds you to wear specific safety gear. For example, if you’re working in an area that contains loud machinery, it’s likely that there will be a sign to wear hearing protection. There are many different types of safety gear designed to protect sensitive areas from potential risks.
Whenever you start a new job, it’s important to check what kind of safety gear you need and what will be provided by the company. It’s a good idea to at least have your own safety boots, hard hat and protective gloves, as these are among the most important.
Of course, the type of gear you need will depend on where you’re working and the risks you’re exposed to. The more dangerous a workplace, the more safety gear you’ll need to minimise the risks. However, don’t think that just because you’re wearing safety gear, you’re not at risk. You still need to take care.
Follow Proper Safety Procedures at All Times
During your training, you should be instructed on the correct safety procedures to follow. Throughout the workplace, signs will remind you to take care or to follow certain steps while working. You should always follow these, even if you think you’ve found a faster, more efficient way to work. Safety procedures may slow you down, but they’re in place to ensure you’re able to carry out your work safely.
Failing to follow the correct procedures will not only put you at risk but may also result in your colleagues getting injured too. If you ignore safety procedures, you may even be liable for serious accidents.
