Top 5 Safety Issues Noted During Loss Control Inspections
April 01, 2018
Keeping the workplace safe and reducing workers compensation loss involves scheduling a visit from the AlaCOMP Loss Control department, which will cover several points. Reviewing company operations from a safety standpoint, evaluating potential hazards and making suggestions for safety program improvements are the focus. Continuous client loss control inspections reveal similar safety issues in need of attention.
Listed below are the top 5 most common safety issues discovered during these visits.
- Slip, trip and fall hazards related to poor housekeeping: Poor housekeeping can breed accidents and injuries. Issues often noted in loss control inspections include air hoses, which remain stretched across the floor. Another common hazard exists when tools and other items linger on work stations when not in use. Additionally, delayed cleanup of liquid spills and trash creates a potential hazard to employees.
- Lockout/Tagout violations: Lockout/Tagout helps control hazardous energy when performing maintenance on various pieces of equipment. Whether electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or steam, an effective Lockout/Tagout program must be in place to protect employees. A written program with documented training and machine-specific instructions establishes a comprehensive Lockout/Tagout program.
- Hazard Communication: a common concern related to employee safety as well as OSHA's Hazard Communication standard involves unlabeled or improperly labeled containers. Containers without proper labels can pose serious health and injury risk to employees. Properly labeling containers is a major component of an effective Hazard Communication program.
- Fire Extinguishers: issues related to fire extinguishers often occur during loss control inspections. Some possible hazards include improper mounting, incomplete monthly inspections by the employer, expired annual inspections (this is done by the fire extinguisher provider), and blocked access to the extinguisher.
- Machine Guarding: bench grinders with tool rest and tongue guards out of adjustment, hand grinders with guards removed, and guarded machinery should be inspected before each use to ensure that the guards function correctly. Light curtains should also be inspected regularly to maintain proper function.
In addition to the 5 most common hazards listed above, several other safety issues commonly appear during loss control visits. Implementing appropriate safety programs and procedures ensures these issues are addressed to prevent employee injury. Having a safe workplace exists as the number one priority. Please visit the AlaCOMP Safety Library or contact the Loss Control department with questions or assistance regarding implementing a quality safety program.