How safety officers can save themselves from the court in case of an accident.

This is a simple and straight forward article based on an accident that I had to handle.

1. Always be aware and make sure your company has HSE plan, Policy and procedures and they follow government rules and regulations.

?2.? Always report issues to higher management, PM, an engineer with proof about audits, inspection outcomes and risks. No verbal communication please.

?3. Ensure permit system is available and followed, this will keep you safe.

4. Ensure 3rd party certificates/card available and valid. Check with Third-party certification if its original or fake. A robust supplier management and evaluation system will help.

5. Ensure people have given work-specific training with attendance recorded before they go to work. (e.g.: flagman training for working as flagman)

6. Always use timestamps on the pictures you take and save them as proof.

7. Conduct toolbox talk daily, take photos and document it.

8. Your job is to make sure people have specific training, following safe working systems and are staying Safe at all times. Remember only paperwork will not bring about safe works, but it will save you in case of an incident.

9. Ensure all workers are inducted and that, records are maintained and updated.

10. Ensure a robust risk assessment process is implemented, job safety environmental assessments, controls for all activities including high risk e.g., All fall arrest systems are available inspected and workers are aware of using them. Permits have to be issued after site inspections.

The above is not an exhaustive list but it helps to have the basics in place. If you have any questions, please feel free to write to me E: [email protected]