working practices, risks and assessments

• Understanding Safe Working Practices

  General Principles:

   

  • Always wear appropriate protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, dust masks, ear plugs, and gloves where necessary.
  • Maintain clean, orderly work areas to minimise tripping hazards and clutter that could inhibit access to safety equipment.
  • Never operate machinery or tools without proper training.
  • Be aware of emergency procedures and the locations of first aid kits, fire extinguishers and emergency exits.
• Use of Tools and Equipment:

  • Inspect tools and equipment on a regular basis for defects or wear. Do not use any tool that is damaged.
  • Ensure tools are suitable for the task at hand. Don’t improvise or use a tool for a job it’s not intended for.
  • Power tools should always be disconnected from the power source when not in use. Never leave a running power tool unattended.
  • Always use clamps or a vise to hold work when it’s being worked on. Never hold the work with one hand and the tool with the other.
• Chemical and Material Handling:

  • Store chemicals and materials properly according to their Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
  • Check for any allergens in materials before you start work. Ensure anyone with allergies knows where the EpiPen is kept.
  • Always wash your hands after handling chemicals, even if gloves were worn.
  • Dispose of waste materials and chemicals safely and responsibly.
• • Machine Operation:
  • Never distract or startle someone who is operating machinery. Speak to them when they have stopped the machine and it’s safe to do so.
  • Always stay a safe distance from moving machinery parts and ensure jewellery, long hair and loose clothing are securely fastened or removed.
  • Everything should be in its correct position and properly adjusted before you switch on a machine.
  • Use a push stick when operating saws to keep fingers clear of blades.
• Electrical Safety:

  • Be aware of where electrical items and cables are located. Keep cables away from water and heat sources.
  • Don’t overload electrical outlets. Unplug equipment when it’s not in use.
  • Always check the insulation and plugs of electrical tools and machinery for damage before use.
• Risk Assessments Defined:

   

  • A risk assessment is a systematic process of evaluating the potential risks that may be involved in a projected activity or undertaking.
  • It involves a detailed study of possible accident situations, hazards that might cause them, and the possible harm that could result from these.
  • The process aims to reduce the likelihood of accidents or harm and ensure measures are in place for safe work practices.
• Importance of Risk Assessments:

  • Risk assessments are a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, to ensure the safety of all individuals in the workspace.
  • They are crucial in identifying hazards and potential dangers, giving individuals the knowledge to avoid harm.
  • They require the evaluation of the severity and probability of risks, helping to prioritise which risks should be addressed first.
  • They help to create a safety-conscious culture within the workspace, promoting the well-being of all.
• Implementing Risk Assessments:

  • Risk assessments should be carried out by a competent person who has the necessary experience and knowledge of the risks associated with work activities.
  • The implementation process includes identifying hazards, deciding on who might be harmed and how, and evaluating risks while taking into account existing precautions.
  • Any findings should be recorded and communicated to all relevant parties in the workspace.
• Reviewing and Updating Risk Assessments:

  • Risk assessments should be reviewed and updated regularly, or when working procedures, personnel, or equipment change, in accordance with the dynamic nature of work environments.
  • They allow for continuous learning and improvements in safety practices, as they are a living document that evolves over time.
  • A lack of review or appropriate modifications could result in outdated or ineffective risk mitigation methods, which could elevate potential risks.