Most injuries in metal fabrication shops happen as a result of carelessness. The truth is that working in a metal fabrication facility can be dangerous if the employees have not properly been trained in safety protocols designed to prevent injuries and other accidents.
With this in mind, here are some of the steps that can be employed to make metal fabrication in Phoenix, AZ significantly safer for workers and equipment.
Implementation of stringent safety measures
Every facility should have clear, consistent safety measures it implements to ensure safe operation and fabrication. These measures should be communicated regularly to all employees of the factory. Not only does this ensure the facility will meet the standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), but it also will go a long way toward reducing the number of injuries sustained on the job, while also boosting productivity and efficiency. There are also various professional certifications that hinge on the safety of a facility, making these safety measures especially important.
Thorough training in all safety measures
You should properly train all employees and ensure they have all needed certifications before they ever begin working in your metal fabrication shop. An employee who holds a welding certification, for example, can be trusted to be knowledgeable in how to create proper welds without risking injury to themselves or others.
The importance of proper training cannot be understated. Not only does it create a safer workplace, but it also leads to higher quality of work, better productivity and more job satisfaction.
The training should not only cover the use of equipment and the various fabrication methods, but also other general guidelines to reduce injuries in the workplace. For example, employees should know how to lift heavy materials and objects around the facility. They should be taught to use their leg muscles rather than their back or neck while lifting to prevent injuries that can linger and put a person out of work for some time.
Workers should also be trained in the proper usage of the various tools on the job site. Misuse of tools can cause serious injuries or even fatalities. Tools should be regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order, free of defects.
Enforce protective clothing rules
Metal fabrication workers must always wear clothing that is appropriate for their work and will protect them from injuries. All workers should wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, goggles, gloves and hard hats whenever they’re working with metal. Safety shoes with good grips and steel toes are also important. Employees should never wear any loose-fitting clothes or jewelry.
In addition, supervisors should make sure proper safety equipment and apparel is available to workers at all times. If respiratory equipment is required for a particular job, the employer should provide it and ensure it fits correctly and that workers have been trained in how to use it.
For more information about making metal fabrication in Phoenix, AZ safer, contact our skilled team at Metal Pro Inc. today.