Step Two: Act
How do I reduce risks and eliminate hazards in my workplace?
Action 1: Reduce Risks
Controlling exposures to hazards is the fundamental method of protecting employees. The Hierarchy of Controls is used in determining how to implement feasible and effective control solutions. The control methods at the top are potentially more effective than those at the bottom.
Action 2: Eliminate Hazards
After conducting a Job Hazard Analysis, supervisors should use the Hierarchy of Controls to eliminate or reduce risks associated with work assignments. For example, eliminate a fall hazard from a roof by placing a permanent guard rail instead of using PPE which protects employees when they fall.
If any hazards exist that pose an immediate danger to an employee’s life or health, take immediate action to protect the worker. To be effective, both supervisors and employees need to accept changes and commit to following any protective measures taken.
Go to the Job Hazard Analysis training here.
Action 3: Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Now that supervisors have recognized and reduced the hazards, the next thing to do is to write a Standard Operating Procedures or SOP for each task. A SOP is an instructional document that breaks down a process into step-by-step instructions. Its target audience are the employees who will perform the task. Writing a SOP for employees helps to reduce risks and incidents. This helps to provide clarification for employee, gives training, and encourages them to do tasks safely.
Use the following tips in your SOPs. Identify the employees this will affect, use a template., break down the process logically, be clear and concise, use visuals. After creating the SOPs, distribute them to the employees, implement them, and update as necessary.
For example: Here is a basic SOP for cleaning up a blood-borne pathogen (BBP), which can only be done by an employee who has been properly trained.
- Prepare to clean up the spill. Barricade the area and gather necessary supplies.
- Protect yourself by wearing PPE.
- Put a paper towel over the spill to protect from splash or aerosol droplets.
- Disinfect the spill with an appropriate disinfectant. Saturate the paper towel and the blood with the solution.
- Wait at least 10 minutes for the disinfectant to inactivate the BBP.
- Clean up the spill and surrounding area. Wipe the spill with towels or rages.
- Dispose of all contaminated materials in a hazardous waste container.
- Remove your PPE and dispose in the hazardous waste container.
- Wash your hands.
- Call BYU RMS to arrange for removal of hazardous waste containers.
While this is basic, you can add any additional information that may be helpful.
If further help is needed, supervisors can contact Risk Management at 801-422-4468.