Safety policies and regulations: What you need to know

By Andrew Ramsey, ANAD Safety OfficeJanuary 28, 2016

Safety policies and regulations: What you need to know
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Many of us go to work every day without giving safety in the workplace a second thought; but we should.

The type of work carried out at Anniston Army Depot varies from cost center to cost center and from directorate to directorate.

We all know working in an industrial environment can be dangerous.

We see signs alerting us to don personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, safety shoes and hearing protection.

We may also see signs restricting entry to personnel specially trained to enter an area due to the presence of hazardous materials or chemicals.

But, what about when we're working on a vehicle? Or working in an office?

Ask yourself this question: Do I know what policies or regulations govern the health and safety of the personnel in my cost center?

If you do, congratulations! You're taking an active role in safety and, by doing so, you're limiting risks.

Those risks include injuring yourself or a co-worker while performing a job, injuring your musculoskeletal system while typing e-mails or sitting at a desk, or damaging your respiratory system through inhalation hazards.

If you work at the depot, chances are you're exposed to hazards on a daily basis.

Work in an industrial environment is very fluid and often changes day to day. Employees are loaned from cost center to cost center as work requirements emerge. If you work in an industrial environment or work with tools and equipment, take the time to talk with your supervisor or lead person about the specific safety requirements of the job.

All cost centers should now have a Go To Resource binder, or GTR.

This green binder contains information on your cost center's safety program elements, including copies of all Job Hazard Analyses applicable to the cost center, a copy of the depot safety regulation and copies of inspection and inventory logs.

If you're a new or loaned employee, ask your supervisor about these JHAs. Take the initiative to get involved and learn how to perform you job safely.

Most injuries are preventable; knowledge is key.

Working together as teammates we can ensure everyone goes home to their family.