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Stop, Look and Move Out of the Line of Fire WORKPLACE SAFETY T201204-01 ©2012 Bongarde

WHAT’S AT STAKE Hear about people “In the wrong place at the wrong time” People who have been victims of crime Applies to workers as well

WHAT’S THE DANGER In the workplace Wrong place at the wrong time Being in the line of fire Injured or killed by your own actions Actions of another worker or even a stranger

EXAMPLE Simplest example of a line of fire Holding a nail to get it started More serious examples: Spinning saw blade – hand is resting in the wrong place Standing too close to a truck – crushed by unstable pipes

EXAMPLE More serious examples: Mobile machinery operator’s blind spot – caught between moving vehicle and a wall Caught under an elevated load – lets loose when a sling breaks Too close to a crane or excavator – contacts a high voltage power line

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Before starting a job Look around for any potential hazards What could possibly go wrong What could happen to you Hit by welding sparks? Operating a forklift too quickly?

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Standing below an elevated area? Knock a heavy object off Standing in the way of a closed door Knocked off ladders Prop the door open Post a warning sign

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Other line of fire hazards: Standing too close Worker who is wielding a tool Sledge hammer or a large wrench Head could fly off Wrench could slip off Don’t stand in its path

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Other line of fire hazards: Standing too close to materials secured by steel bands Under tremendous pressure One of these bands is cut Whip around and inflict serious injury Padded clothing, a hardhat, safety shoes and safety glasses Cut the one farthest away first Stand well back while releasing straps

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Other line of fire hazards: Working on machinery Energy sources have been safely shut down Hazardous energy sources: Electricity Hydraulic Pneumatic Mechanical (spring) Chemical and thermal Gravity Locked and tagged out by an authorized person

A busy workplace is no place to daydream. Final Word A busy workplace is no place to daydream. Stay aware of your surroundings, think of how you might be in the line of fire and step away from the danger.