Drivers
Pool construction and service trucks are large and visibility when operating these vehicles is often poor. In some cases, many drivers may be operating these vehicles for the first time and require a training period to allow them to become familiar with the vehicle’s proportions. Additionally, pool workers can be subject to long hours and/or exposed to difficult weather conditions, which can be cause for drivers being tired and/or distracted.
Vehicles past due for maintenance
Given the seasonal nature of Canada’s pool industry, the peak season load can be almost unmanageable for many companies. As a result, regular vehicle maintenance may get pushed to the backburner simply due to lack of time during the day. To avoid these problems, it is important to be proactive with respect to vehicle maintenance by scheduling service appointments into the day-to-day activities of the business. Tires, brakes, glass, mirrors, lights, and signals are all items that fail early on pool construction and service vehicles, but tend to be ignored long after the problem is noticed.
Disorganized cargo areas
Heavy, awkward sized and shaped tools and equipment, multiple chemicals, shifting loads, and demanding hours can make for a disaster in the back of a work truck. Securing loads properly, isolating chemicals from one another, and keeping the vehicle clean and orderly will go a long way to reducing the potential for an accident.
Going home safely at the end of the day is the only thing that matters. To accomplish this, simply decide outright that working safe will be a priority for the business and its employees and conduct each job accordingly at all times. Do not fold to pressure from deadlines, co-workers, or difficult projects. Occupational health and safety is a frame of mind and a way of life. All too often workers and management, take workplace safety too lightly until an accident hits close to home. Therefore, minimize risks and take action today to ensure a safe workplace every day.
Steve Goodale is a second-generation pool and spa expert from Oakville, Ont. In addition to owning Green Pools and A Better Pool Company, he is also an Internet developer and author of www.swimmingpoolsteve.com. He can be reached via e-mail at swimmingpoolsteve@gmail.com.
