WEEKLY TOOL BOX SAFETY MEETINGS

FIRST DAY ON THE JOB

Whether you’re a rookie and completely new to construction work, or a seasoned journeyman, there is a lot to think about when you arrive for your first day on a new job. Your first thought should be about safety. Your attitude toward safety is important, and you need to have the right attitude from the very beginning. Safety pays dividends on every job; working safely will not only help protect you from injury, it will also make your job more enjoyable.

There are a few things that you will need to know right away on your first day. Can you answer all of these questions: Where are the material safety data sheets (MSDSs) kept on this site? Are they in the trailer, under the seat in the supervisor’s pick-up truck, or maybe in the gang box? Does the jobsite present any special hazards like traffic, damaged structures, or hazardous materials? What should you do, and where should you go if you need first aid? Where are the fire extinguishers and emergency telephones located? What kinds of personal protective equipment will you need? Do you need a hard hat, safety boots, eye or hearing protection, or a respirator? What are the requirements for fall protection at this site?

Another good thing to remember, especially if you are new to construction, is to read all signs. Signs are displayed to give you information and help you protect yourself. Take the time to read them and make sure that you pay attention to their warnings. If you don’t understand what a sign means, ask a co-worker or your supervisor.

If you’ve been observant, you’ll probably have a dozen or so questions by the end of your first day. The best way to get them answered is by asking your supervisor. Remember that there are no dumb questions. There are dumb mistakes and dumb accidents however, and they are often caused by someone who didn’t take the time to learn how to do the job the safe way.

Nobody wants your first day, or any other day, to end with an accident. Your safety, and the safety of everyone on the site hinges on your attitude and your decisions. Start making safety a habit from your very first day on the job. Learn and follow the safety rules, understand what safety equipment you need and be sure to use it properly. If you truly make safety a habit, you will have many first days on many different sites.