Struck-by-objects injuries are one of OSHA’s “Focus Four” hazards. There are measures that can be taken to minimize risk and ways to identify and prevent these types of injuries in the workplace.
No matter how vigilant you are at maintaining a safe workplace, injuries on the job can still happen. Struck-by-object injuries involve a worker being hit by any piece of equipment or object that is falling, flying, swinging, or rolling, including a moving vehicle. These accidents can result in time away from work and prolonged medical treatment, and the most serious cases could be fatal.
There are measures to make your workplace safe and reduce struck-by-object incidents.
1. Job Hazard Assessment: First and foremost, develop a risk assessment of the job site. With this in place you will be able to provide employees with a step-by-step safety guide for safer performance of job tasks.
2. Training: Employees must have the knowledge and understanding of what is needed to keep them safe. By having adequate training on workplace safety protocols, you can minimize incidents.
3. Provide and enforce the use of PPE at work sites: hardhats, safety goggles, safety glasses and/or face shields, appropriate footwear.
4. High Visibility Workers: Workers in high-risk zones at construction sites such as directing traffic or working near heavy equipment, must be always visible. Especially at night by wearing bright gear and reflective vests.
5. Tools and Equipment Inspection; Regular inspection of tools and equipment are vital to maintain safe work conditions. Checking for defects, examine safety guards and components and maintaining equipment. The appropriate Lock out/ Tag out procedures must be followed on damaged and defective tools and equipment.
6. Limit access to work areas; By having a controlled access zone you will keep employees that have not received the adequate training of protocols out of the area. Only those essential to the project will be allowed to enter the work site.
Keeping workers safe on the job is an ongoing process. Let us help you maintain safe worksites. It’s what we do.
