Workplace analysis
All pool and spa professionals encounter an array of potential hazards in and around the workplace. Putting together a team of employees to analyze and identify all potential safety risks is the first step to establishing a level of protection.
This analysis should include a review of past exposures or accidents. Construction site accidents have plagued the industry over the years. Sump pumps with damaged or inadequate electrical cords have caused electrocutions, while trip-and-fall accidents near excavated holes have resulted in broken backs, legs and arms (or worse). Lifting heavy bags of sand, cement, tile and Marcite have often resulted in severe back injuries.
If an accident has occurred in the workplace, what changes were made in the aftermath? Have the issues that caused it been addressed? Bringing a pair of ‘fresh eyes’ to the worksite to evaluate the situation can be helpful. Pool professionals are so engaged and focused on trying to get the work done, they may not be aware of accidents just waiting to happen. There have been numerous tragedies within the pool industry (e.g. chemical accidents, electrocutions, gas heater malfunctions, excavation disasters, etc.) caused solely by this type of negligence in the workplace.
Workplace analyses should not be limited to construction and service businesses. While these environments are obviously risky, retail store employees are also subject to daily chemical hazards that can jeopardize a business.
Hazard prevention
Implementing a preventative maintenance plan for all equipment—from backhoes and forklifts in the field to electrical shortages in the office—can help curb and prevent workplace hazards. Ensure correction methods are in place and repairs are made immediately to any malfunctioning or broken equipment.
The written safety plan should also address the medical procedures required if an accident or illness develops, including who to contact and who is responsible for making decisions in emergency situations. Also take time to walk around the workplace on a regular basis to keep an eye out for any potential hazards.
Education
Safety training is central to the health and well-being of each and every employee. Supervisors, managers and even part-time workers must understand the safety issues at play in the work environment. Supply each employee with a detailed job description and make it clear to all staff who is authorized and trained to do particular tasks. Regular safety sessions to review job skills and hazard awareness should also be held regularly, in which a complete review of chemical safety procedures (with an emphasis on handling hazardous materials) should be conducted.
