Safe From Being Struck

STRUCK BY AN OBJECT

A major, leading cause of work deaths is being struck or getting caught in between an object. Examples:

• Struck or thrown against an object
• Struck by a moving object

Any kind of rolling, swinging, flying, sliding, or slipping object can be very dangerous. Last year, 93 workers were hit by building materials, vehicles slipping off of jacks, logged trees, and various other objects. But like all accidents in the workplace, being struck by an object is highly preventable.

The biggest culprit? Not paying attention. Shoddy equipment, unqualified personnel, unsafe work habits, and unorganized worksites were also major contributors.

Employers should provide education on work site hazards. Personnel should conduct job safety analysis meetings and immediately address possible hazards when found. If these steps are taken, the chances of being struck by an object are greatly reduced.

Here are some extra tips to use when working to create a safe work environment.

• Walk around vehicles to ensure they are in safe operating condition
• Store loose materials in a secure location
• Secure any items at a height
• Place your heavy objects on/or close to the floor
• Filing cabinets should only have a single drawer open at a time
• Wear the right PPE for the job
• Walk behind or stay clear of moving equipment if possible
• Don’t block your vision by overloading moving equipment
• Use only the equipment you have been trained to use
• Keep safety devices like pulleys and lift lines in safe condition
• Be cautious when approaching a door or corner
• Make sure personnel operating heavy equipment can see you
• When loading material, make sure the load is evenly dispersed to stop tipping

Click here to get your [FREE] Safety Guide and keep safe!