June is National Safety Month

Join the National Safety Council (NSC), Lead Staffing, and thousands of organizations nationwide in celebrating National Safety Month.

Observed annually in June, National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road and in our homes and communities. The focus on safety for 2019 is Hazard Recognition, Slips, Trips and Falls, Fatigue, and Impairment. Below, are tips on being Safe from Lead Staffing and NSC:

Learn to see Hazards

Spotting hazards is all about anticipation. Start to ask yourself, ‘If I take this action, what might happen?’

Lighting 
A burnt-out bulb can keep hazards in the shadows. Even if you’re not the one to fix it, report this hazard right away. 

Temperature 
Plan and dress appropriately for the temperatures you’ll experience on the job. Watch out for other possible hazards caused by the weather, like early morning dew on concrete. 

Air quality 
Similar to temperature, make sure exhaust fans are running. 

Overexertion 
The number one cause of work-related injury. Report stress or strain on your body from heavy lifting or repetitive motions and talk to your supervisor to make sure you are performing these actions safely. 

Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls

Though they might seem harmless, slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common hazards we face in the workplace, and they can have serious consequences. Always following safety procedures is crucial to avoiding injury, but so is speaking up to keep your coworkers safe. Below is the most common reason a fall happens:

  • Wet or oily surfaces
  • Loose mats and flooring that lacks traction
  • Poor lighting, obstructed views, and uncovered cables
  • Weather hazards
  • Improoper footwear

Fight Fatigue Risks

Being fatigued can have severe impacts on our health and safety, but some simple steps can help you get the rest you need. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep each day and avoid the below:

Alcohol – While drinking alcohol may make you feel drowsy, it can interrupt your circadian rhythm and cause poor-quality sleep. 

Caffeine – As a stimulant, consuming caffeine can disrupt your sleep patterns. Avoid it for as long as six hours before bedtime. 

Environment – Keep your bedroom cool and dark. Consider blackout curtains and turning down the thermostat. 

Screens – The blue light from T.V.s, phones, tablets, and other electronic devices can keep your body from producing melatonin, the hormone that helps you relax and get to sleep. Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before bed. 

Safety is a mindset and is everyone’s responsibility. Lead Staffing does business with contractors that have a commitment to safety, which is followed by our own safety protocols.  You are also an essential aspect of our safety plan for we rely on your eyes and ears as to any safety issue you may see or encounter on a customer’s job site.