SAFETY TIPS

Employee Safety Tips

1. Survey your work site for safety hazards. Make sure you always have a clear path.
2. Use sidewalks and graveled pathways. Don't cut across areas with mud, loose soil or debris.
3. Correct those you can and inform supervisor of those you can't and post a warning.
4. Review your work procedures for possible injury causing activities.
5. Wear proper clothing (especially shoes) for the task and weather
6. Train on the power equipment you will use to do the job.
7. Check equipment often for wear and tear.
8. If there is a better, easier way to do it, suggest it to your supervisor.
9. If equipment will decrease the risk, use it!

Guidelines for safer lifting

• Position materials at a height that allows you to work within you power zone (between your shoulders and your knees)
• Avoid lifting or lowering from the floor
• Handling unstable or heavy loads

Guidelines for safer carrying

• Before carrying, always test load for stability and weight
• Wear appropriate shoes to avoid slips, trips, and falls
• Slide, push, or roll instead of carrying when appropriate
• Carry only as much as you can safely handle by yourself
• Keep loads close to your body
• Make sure you have a clear view of the path you are taking
• Use two hands to carry containers
• Take rest breaks
• Wear proper size gloves that fit. Gloves with rubber dots on the surface can increase grip stability on slippery surfaces.

Guidelines for Desk Ergonomics

When Keying

• Shoulders should be relaxed and your elbows should be close to your body
• Elbows are bent to at least 90 degrees
• The tops of the "home row" keys are at the same height as your elbows, or slightly lower than your elbow
• Your wrist are straight

Work space set up

• Make sure frequently used materials are near (your elbow remains at your side)
• Materials that you use occasionally are no more than an arms length away
• You are not reaching across your body to work