Page 49 - OHS, March 2020

RISK MANAGEMENT
The Sounds of Safety
It all loops back to safety
BY RODNEY SHUCK
www.ohsonline.com
MARCH 2020 | Occupational Health & Safety 43
The country of Japan has the fastest, most effi- cient train system in the world. It transports more than 40 million people each year, and the “Point and Call” safety system is given credit for its high efficiency. This system has been proven to avoid mistakes by requiring every worker to call out what they are doing or what is happening as they point to it. For example, “I’ve checked the en- gines” or “I am closing the doors right now.”
The Japanese Industrial and Health Association adopted the “Point and Call” occupational safety method that requires co-action and co-reaction com- munication. The result is the engagement of the oper- ators’ brains, eyes, mouths, hands, and ears. Gesturing and speaking out the status requires and maintains focus and attention. It guarantees intentionality and keeps the employees and riders safe. Efficiency in- creases productivity. While Japanese train drivers first used the method, it is now commonly used in other Japanese industries. It is also used in our own New York City subway system.
While some perceive this system as impractical for many businesses, it warrants consideration because it demonstrates that a relationship between safety, effi- ciency, and productivity exists. Efficiency is, in part, the result of a successful safety record. Efficiency always increases productivity. Productivity results in more significant revenue, and revenue drives everything in business. It all loops back to safety. There is enormous
value in training and implementing safe work practic- es. As necessary, it is the responsibility of the business owner to provide a safe place for employees.
Provide a Safe Physical Environment
Creating a safe physical environment for employees and customers is essential. Maintaining the physi- cal building and its property requires monitoring for safe conditions to prevent accidents. While the prop- erty owner is ultimately responsible, a business owner wants to do all he can to keep employees and cus- tomers safe. The most common accident in an office setting are accidents that involve falls, so to increase workplace safety, consider posting warning signs for icy conditions, and conducting seasonal inspections to confirm walkways remain level. Confirm that all entrances, exits, and parking lots are well-lit. Install handrails and non-skid stair treads, runners or stair tape on concrete stairs, and keep hallways and floor space clear of obstructions. Following all safety mea- sures may not prevent an accident, but it will reduce the chances for one.
Establish a Written Evacuation Route
Regardless of the size of the building, every business should post a written evacuation route in plain site of employees and visitors in the event of a fire or emer- gency. An annual fire drill should also be planned where employees gather at a safe meeting site near, but off, the property. Managers must account that every team member is present.
A plan for the emergency condition weather condi- tion of tornados should also be in view. One customer said she was visiting a business when the emergency broadcast system interrupted the music playing in the reception area with menacing and repeated warnings of “take shelter immediately.” With a glance out the window at the green sky told everyone the threat was severe. The employees of the business panicked. They were at a loss and offered no guidance. The custom- ers in the building were the ones who asked for the location of the nearest stairwell and interior walls. It was an intense and chaotic scene. While the tornado touched down nearly one mile away, the reputation and expertise of the business suffered in the minds of the customer who experienced this threat. It is the responsibility of the company to ensure it keeps both its employees and its customers safe on the property.
Know the Risks of Vehicles on the Job
Another area where a lack of safety knowledge can impact the business financially is vehicular accidents
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