“An effective Safety Program includes provisions for the systematic identification, evaluation, and prevention or control of general workplace hazards, specific job hazards, and potential hazards that may arise from foreseeable conditions.”
-OSHA
At a minimum, your program should include identifying exposure to hazards, evaluating how the hazards affect your means and methods and what steps you will take to prevent, or control identified hazards.
Make the commitment
Management must commit to safety. The first steps include setting aside time to develop a safety and health program and allocating resources (don’t get stuck on budget, this is more people resources than financial resources). Write a commitment letter signed by the CEO or owner of the company and send it to everyone.
Hazard Assessment
Look at the hazards that people will encounter on your construction projects. OSHA has a good resource for hazard identification and assessment.
Training
Educating people on your program is one of the essential elements of an effective health and safety program. It is a good idea to include requirements in your written program. I will be writing more about this topic.
Written Programs
If you are starting here, the easiest thing to do is find programs by following the links below. Select programs that you know you can follow. As your program advances, you will want to customize each program to your company.
External Links to free sample safety programs:
elcosh – Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety & Health
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
Washington State Dept. of Labor & Industries
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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