Ten Commandments Of Good Safety Habits

Do You know the Ten commandments of good safety habits?

In most everything we do, we find a “trick” to make the process easier & faster.  After we develop these tricks, they become work habits in our everyday activities.  Developing everyday safety habits can keep you injury free.  Here are 10 safety habits to live by:

1. Set Your Own Standards. Don’t be influenced by others around you who are negative.  It’s your health on the line if you do not do your job safely.
2. Operate Equipment Only If Qualified. Your supervisor may not realize you have never done the job before.  You have the responsibility to let them know, so the necessary training can be provided.
3. Respect Machinery. If you put something in a machine’s way, it will crush it, pinch it or cut it.  Make sure all guards are in place & never hurry beyond your ability to think & act safely.  Don’t forget to use your lock out / tag out to de-energize machinery before placing your hands in a point of operation.
4. Use Your Own Initiative For Safety Protection. You are in the best position to see problems when they arise.  Ask for the personal protective equipment or additional guidance or assistance you need.
5. Ask Questions. If you are uncertain, ask.  Do not accept answers that contain, “I think, I assume, I guess.”  Be sure.
6. Use Care & Caution When Lifting. Most muscle & spinal injuries are from overstrain.  Know your limits.  Do not attempt to exceed them.  The few minutes it takes to get help will prevent weeks of being off work & in pain.
7. Practice Good Housekeeping. Disorganized work areas are the breeding grounds for accidents.  You may not be the only victim.  Don’t be a cause.
8. Wear Proper & Sensible Work Clothes. Wear appropriate footwear.  Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewelry, & be sure that long hair is tied back & cannot become entangled in the machinery.  Follow your company’s policies!
9. Practice Good Personal Cleanliness. Avoid touching eyes, face, & mouth with gloves or hands that are dirty.  Wash well.  Most industrial rashes are the result of poor hygiene practices.  Also, good hygiene is the best way to avoid MRSA.
10. Be A Positive Part Of The Safety Team. Willingly accept & follow safety rules.  Encourage other to do so.  Your attitude can play a major role in the prevention of accidents & injuries.

Remember, The ten commandments of good safety habits are just some of the many ways you can practice good safety!