At the May meeting of the NJLCA Combined Board, the officers and directors discussed implementing the program of "Safety First" and it was unanimously supported. First Vice President Dyle MacGregor suggested the program and wanted the NJLCA to establish and promote the safety program to the membership at general membership meetings, in the company's newsletter and on it's website.
When starting any new business program, it takes a commitment from the owners and top management. As the owner of your company you must take the initiative and establish a safety program that works for you and your employees. You should challenge your managers to incorporate safety in their jobs, everyday. Everything from starting the day by making sure all equipment is in good working condition to making sure your vehichles are in safe operating condition, to working on the job. Safety in the workplace is important because it directly impacts the bottom line by reducing claims and insurance costs. Also, an important reason for a safety program is the health and welfare of your employees that improves work productivity.
The most important elements of an effective safety program are consistency and accountability. Keep your safety program simple by putting emphasis on a few key ideas that can continue throughout the season. Appoint someone fromm your staff to oversee your safety program and have them keep it interesting and understanable. HE/she should be as passionate about safety as you are and you must have the cooperation and respect of other employees.
Have your employees alternate leading safety meetings to keep them involved. Brief, regular "tailgate" meetings are a simple way to get employees thinking and keep them remeinded about workplace safety.They could focus on a specific topic, review any incidents and should only last five to 10 minutes. Another important part of your safety program should include procedures to investigate all accidnents and determine what steps are necessary to prevent a recurrence of the incident.
Now that the landscape season is in full swing, it is more important than eve to take the time to promote "safety first" in the workplace. Do not sacrifice safety and take the short cuts just to get the job done. Safety is everyone's responsibility. You must make safety a priority in the way you operate your company. It makes you more professional and separates you from competition.
The officers and ddirectors of NJLCA have made a commitment to bring "safety first" ideas to our members. If you would like to get involved and participate in the "Safety First" program, or have any suggestions or comments, please contact Dyle MacGregor at 201/797-1881 between the hours of 9 AM and 5 PM.