Safety First

Safety - Definition: The condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause danger, risk, or injury. In a perfect world, this not only sounds good, but would work all of the time. However, since our world isn't perfect, accidents can and do happen. I'm on the road for a good part of most days, and it's amazing to me how many people act in an unsafe manner. Yes, just getting to one of our custom home sites can be interesting, and driving to each site also gives me time to think about ways in which we can better prepare ourselves.

My job as Safety Officer here at Plate Line Framers Inc is to make sure all of our people in the field are protected and, of course, working safely. We have regular safety meetings at each construction site with the Foremen and all Plate Line Inc employees working at that site. We pick a topic or two for each meeting and discuss what can be done in order to ensure each and every person is safe on the job. Some of the topics covered are head injuries, eye protection, ladder safety, fall protection, tripping hazards, electrical cords, power tool safety, and heat illness prevention.

One of my biggest concerns is regarding heat illness, how to prevent, and subsequently avoid the affects of it. Growing up during the 80's, I don't remember how much of a concern drinking water (staying hydrated) was. "Hey Kool-Aid"! Times were different then, and we didn't have wide knowledge or emphasis on keeping hydrated (thanks, Internet!). We know how important it is to stay hydrated, especially working outdoors with higher temperatures and physical exertion.

We are always encouraging our employees to drink plenty of water, take break's in the shade if needed, and to watch out for each other (especially during days of high heat).

In order to be safe we have to practice safety. While repetition is the mother of skill, we can all use reminders on how to get in the "safe zone" and stay there. Drink plenty of water! Wear your hard hat, safety glasses, use caution with all hazardous equipment, and most of all be alert.

Darren