WORKPLACE SAFETY  |  We desire to be a safe and healthy place for team members, customers, and visitors. A successful safety program depends on everyone being alert and committed to safety.

You are expected to obey all safety standards and be careful at work. You must immediately report any unsafe condition to the appropriate Leader. If you violate our safety standards, you may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Violations include causing a hazardous or dangerous situation, not reporting a hazardous or dangerous situation, and not correcting a problem even though you could have corrected it.

It is very important that you tell the appropriate leader immediately about any accident that causes an injury, no matter how minor it might seem at the time. When administering first aid, use caution to avoid contact with bodily fluids.

You have certain rights regarding the use of hazardous materials in the workplace. We will provide you with information regarding the following:

• What chemicals are used in the workplace (MSD Sheets)
• Where the chemicals are located
• Physical and health hazards associated with the chemicals
• Protection measures that must be taken to prevent exposure
• What to do in case of exposure to the chemicals

 

For additional information on hazardous materials in the workplace consult your leader.

 

General Safety Rules

Leader Responsibilities   Leaders are responsible for safety training and safety performance. They will enforce all safety standards.

Employee Responsibilities   All team members are expected to be aware of our safety standards and to perform their specific job safely.

Hazard Reporting   All team members are expected to be involved in the safety process and help identify, report, and correct unsafe equipment, conditions, and work practices. Please report potential hazards to your leader.

Safety Training    No team member is expected to perform a job without prior safety training. If you have not been properly trained, you are responsible for informing your leader.

Accident Reporting   All accidents must be reported to a leader immediately. Accidents will be investigated to determine contributing factors and controls or corrective measures that may be needed.

Housekeeping   All team members are responsible for keeping their work areas clean and organized. Prevent falls in the office by keeping walkways and floors clear of trash, boxes, cords, cables, supplies, and other items. Spills should be cleaned immediately. Team members are to follow the “clean as you go” rule.

Ladder Safety    Inspect ladders before each use. Face the ladder and maintain three points of contact when climbing up and down. Keep your belt buckle within the rails and move the ladder when necessary. Do not stand on the top two steps. Step ladders must have legs spread and braces locked. Tie off extension ladders must use the 4-to-1 rule (1 ft. away from wall per 4 ft. of vertical length).

Material Handling/Back Safety   Size up the load. If it is too heavy, break the load down into manageable parts. Use appropriate material handling equipment. Use carts or dollies for items that cannot be handled manually or ask for help. When lifting, avoid bending at the waist. Lift with your legs and avoid twisting at the waist by moving your feet. Avoid reaching by keeping loads close to your body. Do not attempt to lift items that are too heavy or bulky.

Truck/Floater Safety   All drivers must have a current and valid license for the vehicle they are to operate. Drivers must wear seat belts and make sure passengers wear seatbelts. Drivers are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving. They should avoid drowsy driving, drive defensively, and obey all traffic laws. Drivers must take rest breaks as needed when they are drowsy, and passengers in the front seat must remain awake to help the driver. Drivers should also allow their passengers to answer the driver’s cell phone calls, respond to texts, and assist with navigation, etc. If the passenger is an authorized driver, driving duties should be shared to avoid drowsy driving. Drivers are responsible for inspecting vehicles daily and reporting suspected mechanical problems to the Purchasing team and their leader. Avoid falls by facing the cab and maintaining three points of contact by using all handles and steps while climbing in and out of the cab. Use caution at railroad crossings, at rural road intersections, near deer and cattle, in adverse weather, etc.