What do we call unsafe acts in the work environment?

Unsafe acts at work are omissions or mistakes made by a worker while performing their assigned job or activity. This carries the risk of suffering an accident , either individual or involving other employees. In fact, statistical studies indicate that 90% of workplace accidents are caused by unsafe acts.

Many times, the problem occurs because these are standardized: not wearing PPE, skipping the protocol, lack of training when using equipment, etc. Sometimes all this is done in the interest of saving time, but it is a serious mistake and can compromise the safety of the personnel.

Practical examples of unsafe acts

When unsafe or unconscious acts are normalized, it is difficult to recognize them in order to apply corrective measures. This is important in our situation, because in times of pandemic we must have the protocols more present than ever. Therefore, with this list you will be able to know the most common unsafe acts in the work environment:

• Work without wearing protective equipment.
• Using equipment without authorization.
• Overloading equipment or installing it improperly.
• Not communicating the risks of the job.
• Working at risky speeds.
• Having a cluttered work area.
• Perform maintenance or cleaning on equipment that continues to operate.
• In times of pandemic, do not use a mask or face shield, when the job requires it.

How can we correct unsafe acts?

Once we have detected the incidence of one or more unsafe acts, we must act. Keep in mind that it is not about intervening in an arrogant or altered way. To know how to deal with these situations, here are some tips.

• Intervene and approach the worker calmly.
• Do not transmit aggressiveness during the intervention.
• Always try to address the problem from a positive comment.
• Then talk about how important safety is.
• Mention the unsafe act you witnessed and explain the possible consequences of it.
• Consult the worker about other alternatives to carry out the work safely.

It is also important to ask if there is any reason that makes it impossible for the worker or workers to comply with the safety protocols. If as a supervisor or employer you notice defiance or reluctance on the part of one or more workers, it is worth mentioning the potential disciplinary consequences that this entails. If necessary, remember the internal regulations for safety and health at work, which they accepted when starting work in the company.

Preventive measures to minimize unsafe acts

To avoid tensions in the work environment or accidents that lead to serious consequences, it is advisable to implement a preventive management system , since the most important thing will always be to prevent.

Select your staff correctly

This point is key, since the workers of a company are a reflection of the criteria of their employer when selecting them. Try to work with qualified professionals who are aware of the importance of job safety and work regulations.

Conduct training on occupational risk prevention

It is important to train workers in the use of PPE , machinery, maintenance work, etc. You should also keep up to date with the news regarding security, protective materials and others. By having the same information, they will work in harmony and you will avoid witnessing risky acts.

Trust a supervisor

Although workers may be well trained, a supervisor never hurts. Its function is vital, especially in jobs that involve exposure to high risks , manipulation of potentially dangerous machines and activities that easily lead to accidents.

Although falling into unsafe acts may be due to ignorance, that does not relieve us of responsibility. As workers, we must bear in mind not only our safety, but that of our co-workers. As employers and supervisors, we cannot prioritize the speed of job delivery over the safety of those who are part of the company and provide your trust. Safety depends on everyone and avoiding these risks is one more point that must be met in search of true efficiency.

Definition and importance

The 5-minute talks are talks held before starting the working day in which the aim is to inform and sensitize workers about their safety and health.

In general, in the 5-minute talks, topics related to hazards and emergency situations that may arise in work areas are discussed, and they know how to react and what measures to take in these events.

It is important to do the 5-minute talk because it allows us to generate in the workers a commitment to the Occupational Health and Safety System, showing them that we care about their participation within the company, and that they are a fundamental piece for their development.

The topics of the 5-minute talks

The topics that one wants to inform the workers will depend on the current situation of the company and the conditions in which it is in matters of Health and Safety, since in this way it will be prioritized and more emphasis will be placed on the topics that are “the weak points” of the company.

The starting point is always the matrix of Risk Assessment, which shows the dangers that exist in the company and the measures that are being taken to minimize the risks. The 5-minute talks should also cover topics from the matrix.

For example: If the company is a manufacturer of HDPE pipe, and its operators constantly perform hot work (welding). Some of the topics that could be touched on in the 5-minute talks are: heat stroke, the importance of checking welding tools, the use of gloves and masks, the appropriateness of fire extinguishers, etc.

One of the key points for an Occupational Health and Safety Management System to function properly is to make workers aware of the importance of their safety.