20 Years on Staff
by Greg Behnke, Secretary-Treasurer
This year marks my 20th year on staff at Local 1059. Over this twenty year period I have heard from UFCW members and represented them on restrictive schedules and accommodations from work place injuries. When we are at work there are agencies and regulations that help to prevent work place accidents. At work our senses for our safety are generally heightened.
Most employees use work related injury tracking posters and notices in conspicuous areas to remind them about being aware of your surroundings and being vigilant to help avoid accidents.
But as I look around my home I haven't seen any of these postings. As matter of fact, most accidents happen at home. This summer many of us will do work around our homes. Whether you are remodeling, cutting grass, painting, gardening, or evening working on your car, please be as vigilant as you would be at work.
We are obviously more relaxed at home with our family and loved ones near us, but this is all the more reason we should be extra careful about our safety.
I have witnessed individuals using concrete blocks or a five gallon bucket to lift a heavy load to a location above their head in lieu of using a ladder. Reaching down under a running lawn mower to pull out sticks is not safe either. In these situations, yard workers duck to avoid flying objects. Our instincts that tell us the situation is unsafe are correct. We should stop the mower first!
Replacing outlets and light switches without switching off the connection through a power box is another hazardous situation. Switch off the connection first to avoid electric shock. Working underneath a car balanced on top rounded rocks or concrete blocks is another risky situation. Using a proper car jack makes for an easier job and a safer work experience.
Summer weather is fun, but working in these temperatures can be dangerous, too. Be sure to stay hydrated, avoiding heat exhaustion and impaired judgment.
Injuries that can occur from any of the above could result in you not being able to provide for your family from missed work. More seriously, an accident from the situations above could result in death.
So please be careful and safety conscience this summer. Our responsibility to our health does not stop while on the job at work, and our families and loved ones depend on this. Have a great time with your loved ones.
This site maintained by the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1059
© UFCW Local 1059 - All Rights Reserved |
