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Communicate Hazards

 


Report and replace damaged gear. If your Personal Protective Equipment has been damaged, it's time to replace it. Gear such as safety glasses or hardhats should be turned in for replacement when they have received an impact, because they may have received damage you cannot see. Retire these items because they have already done their job by protecting you. 

Emergency equipment is useless unless it is ready to use instantly. If you know of a fire extinguisher which has not been serviced on schedule, report it to your supervisor. If you discharge an extinguisher, it must be filled and serviced before you hang it up again.

A temporary hazard such as a wet floor needs a temporary warning until it can be cleaned up. Barricade the spot, put up a sign to warn others and report the hazard so it can be taken care of promptly.

It might be difficult to do, but reporting a co-worker who is drunk or drugged on the job could save a life. Someone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs could make a mistake with tragic consequences. Talk to your supervisor if you observe someone working while high or intoxicated.

Your safety responsibility extends outside the workplace to the environment and community. Immediately report any chemical release or hazardous waste so it can be cleaned up before it causes environmental damage.

Drums and other chemical containers must be labeled properly. One reason is in case of a leak or spill, emergency crews will know how to clean up the material and what precautions to use. Chemical containers must be handled with care and stored under the proper conditions. Report any damaged containers and missing labels.