Last one out turns off the lights! If only it were that simple. In today’s work environments, whether it’s a fixed facility or a temporary job site, after hours safety and security is an important responsibility that is to never be overlooked. This involves more than just turning out the lights at the end of the day. As posted, you see SafetyEd making sure the building is all armed before leaving his shift.
A good approach is to use a checklist, to ensure that everything is checked for safety and security. The list can be customized to suit your own operation, and may include the following:
• Perimeter Fencing and Gates
• Vehicles and Machinery
• Roof Top Access
• Elevated Platforms
• Dumpsters and Recycle Bins
• Area Lighting
• Fuel Tanks and Chemicals
• Toolboxes
• Open Trenches and Pits
• Doors and Windows
• Exposed Electrical Hazards
• Open Containers
The same effort that goes into protecting the safety and health of all Axcess employees during the work shift should be taken to when the day ends to stop intruders after hours. Intruders can and will create a variety of problems, such as theft, vandalism, arson, sabotage and burglary. This kind of activity can have direct effects on workers, customers and the image from the public.
All employees should be aware of safety and security issues and do their best to help secure the premises before leaving for the night or the weekend. Anyone hanging around can be tempted to enter a work area if it is left uncontrolled. Intruders of any kind may leave the workplace in a dangerous condition or end up hurting themselves. It is your job site that you return to each day. Stay alert and help keep it safe for everyone.
As mentioned in the last paragraph, all employees need to be aware. In my experience, the biggest thing to ensure increased safety after-hours, is to instill a sense of accountability amongst trades as well as all personnel. When everyone is accountable for their own area or discipline of work, it makes nightly lock up much easier. Set expectations high early on and hold personnel accountable when those expectations are not met.