Provide training specific to the hazards encountered
Besides ensuring workers follow documented procedures and receive general awareness training, jobsites should provide training based on specific hazards found on the job. When addressing particular hazards, projects should consider:
- Choosing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the work activity,
- Establishing and maintaining the jobsite safety program, and
- Instituting a formal training program that addresses exposure to hazards.
Depending on job responsibilities and exposures, these might be topics that projects should include in their safety orientation.
Choose proper PPE
Most synthetic fabrics used in PPE, such as nylon, acrylic, or polyester, will melt when ignited and produce a hot, sticky, melted substance causing severe burns. Clothing should be of such design, fit, and durability as to provide adequate protection against the hazards for which they are designed and be reasonably comfortable and not unduly encumber the worker’s movements. Supervisors should assess if workers need to wear safety apparel, such as a face mask, goggles, boots, and gloves.
Establish a safety program
Having a documented site-specific safety program has proven to be an effective method of ensuring all workers receive the necessary safety information needed to do their jobs. Although not a federal requirement, OSHA says that an effective safety program should address the following elements:
- Project management leadership and worker participation,
- Hazard identification and assessment,
- Hazard prevention and control,
- Training and instruction,
- Evaluation of program effectiveness, and
- Responsibilities of clients/contractors.
Institute a formal training program
The purpose behind a formal training program is to ensure all workers receive the same safety information and to verify they have the necessary skills to work safely before going ahead with any given task. Provide training to:
- New workers;
- All workers with new job assignments for which training has not previously been received;
- Whenever new substances, procedures, or equipment are introduced to the jobsite and represent a new hazard;
- Whenever the project is made aware of a new or previously unrecognized hazard; and
- Supervisors to familiarize themselves with the safety and health hazards workers may have exposure to under their immediate direction and control.