1. 1
INTRODUCTION
Due to rapid industrialization, industrial workers are exposed to several types of hazards
and accidents. Every year lakhs of workers are injured due to mechanical, chemical, electrical and
radiation hazards and it leads to partial or total disablement. So in recent years, greater attention is
given to health and safety due to pressure from government, trade unions, labour laws and
awareness of employers.
The efficiency of workers depends to a great extends on the environment in which the
work. Work environment consists of all the factors, which act and react on the body and mind of
an employee. The primary aim is to create an environment, which ensures the greatest ease of work
and removes all causes of worries.
Occupational health and safety is a discipline with a broad scope involving many
specialized fields. In its broadest sense, it should aim at:
1. The promotion and maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental and
social well-being of workers in all occupations.
2. The prevention among workers of adverse effects on health caused by their working
conditions.
3. The protection of workers in their employment from risks resulting from factors
averse to health.
4. The placing and maintenance of workers in an occupational environment adapted
to physical and mental needs.
5. The adaptation of work to humans.
Successful occupational health and safety practice requires the collaboration and
participation of both employers and workers in health and safety programmes, and involves the
consideration of issues relating to occupational medicine, industrial hygiene, toxicology,
education, engineering safety, ergonomics, psychology, etc.
Occupational health issues are often given less attention than occupational safety issues
because the former are generally more difficult to confront. However, when health is addressed,
so is safety, because a healthy workplace is by definition also a safe workplace. The converse,
though, may not be true - a so-called safe workplace is not necessarily also a healthy workplace.
The important point is that issues of both health and safety must be addressed in every workplace.
Work plays a central role in people's lives, since most workers spend at least eight hours a
day in the workplace, whether it is on a plantation, in an office, factory, etc. Therefore, work
environments should be safe and healthy. Unfortunately, some employers assume little
responsibility for the protection of workers' health and safety. In fact, some employers do not even
know that they have the moral and often legal responsibility to protect workers.
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WHAT IS SAFETY?
Safety refers to the absence of accidents. Stated differently, safely refers to the protection
of workers from the danger of accidents. Safety, in simple terms, means freedom from the
occurrence or risk of injury or loss. Industrial safety or employee safety refers to the protection of
workers from the danger of industrial accidents. An accident, then is an unplanned and
uncontrolled event in which an action or reaction of an object, a substance, a person, or a radiation
results in personal injury.
TYPES OF ACCIDENTS
Accidents are of different types. They may be classified as major and minor ones,
depending upon the severity of the injury. An accident which ends in a death, or which results in
a prolonged disability to the injured is a major one. A scratch or a cut which does not seriously
disable him/her is a minor accident, but an accident nevertheless. A mere incision or a deep scratch,
say, on the leg or the shoulder, may or may not immediately disable the worker, but he or she may
develop disability later. Again, a wound which may disable one worker may not disable another
who receives a similar injury.
An accident may be internal or external. If a worker falls, or an object falls on him or her,
it is possible he or she may show no external signs of injury, but he or she may have fractured a
bone or strained a muscle or nerve- which is an internal injury. A worker may be disabled by an
injury for hour, half a day, a day, a week, a month, or a few months. If he or she recovers from
such a disability, his or her disability is temporary. If the injury is such that he or she will never
recover fully, his or her disability is permanent.
Hazards in the garment industry include accident hazards, such as burns and puncture
wounds, physical hazards, such as heat and noise, chemical hazards, such as allergies, ergonomic
hazards posed by poor posture, biological hazards from poor nutrition, and psychosocial ones that
result from abuse on the part of supervisors and a depressing work environment. All of these are
inter-related, and can affect both productivity in general and the individual health of the worker.
Thus, in most cases, workers do not create hazards - hazards are built into the workplace.
Some of the common causes of
accidents in the garment industry are poor
housekeeping, heavy manual lifting and
inadequate use of Personal Protection
Equipment (PPE). According to one study
conducted in Bangalore, puncture wounds
were the most common type of accident
(48.3%), followed by incised wounds
(28.1%), blunt injuries (13.5%), burns (5.6%)
and foreign bodies (4.5%). Incidents of
accidents during the study period were
2.49/1000 workers, with about half of those
injured being tailors.
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Poor housekeeping is not only an accident hazard because of boxes, thread, trimmings and
other combustible materials lying around the shop floor, but also because of dust which, when
combined with poor ventilation and the poor quality of masks, can lead to respiratory problems.
Inadequate use of PPE can either be the result of guards that are missing from machines altogether,
or of the discomfort workers experience while using them. Workers claim that the use of PPE
hinders the meeting of high production targets.
“Exposure to cotton dust causes irritation in the upper respiratory tracts and bronchi, which
after prolonged exposures slowly progresses to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Besides all
garment industries have dust problems. Dust fiber’s mainly produced from cutting and sewing
sections of garment industries can be seen on workbenches, lamps and even worker’s hair. The
smallest of these fibers are breathed in by the workers and, over the long term, cause a variety of
respiratory problems. The problems are made worse as many industries use brooms and dusters to
clean the workplace rather than use of industrial vacuum cleaners which simply spreads the dust
and dust control is often made worse as workers do not wear their dust masks in the correct
fashion.” Moreover, workers are not informed of the dangers associated with their work, or the
precautions to be taken while handling chemicals.
The Factories Act places emphasis on work safety, lighting, temperature and ventilation,
cleanliness, disposal of wastes and effluents, dust and fumes and overcrowding, among other
things. These aspects do not receive adequate attention in many garment factories in the country.
Lack of general training on health and safety, specifically first aid training, is another common
anomaly that compromises worker safety. While the Factories Act provides for annual medical
examinations for hazardous industries, the classification of the garment industry as non-hazardous
has made the situation worse for workers.
The most common health problem attributed to their occupation by garment workers was
the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). This was also the primary cause for workers
seeking medical attention. The most common MSDs include tendonitis, epicondylitis (Tennis or
Golfer’s Elbow), bursitis, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome and back strain. MSD prevalence
is found to be particularly high among tailors. Without even basic counteractive measures like a
back rest and adequate breaks at regular intervals, the repetitive nature of the work and the poor
posture adopted by workers often leads to one or the other form of MSD. Other simple preventive
measures such as stretching exercises could vastly help relieve many of the problems arising out
MSDs if they are made a part of overall health education. Such exercises are never incorporated
in health and safety training in most garment factories in Sri Lanka.
The sedentary nature of the work also predisposes workers to lifestyle diseases. A study
looking at the nutritional status of garment workers in Bangalore between 2002 to 2005 found that
there was a sharp increase in the number of pre-obese, obese (class 1) and obese (class 2) workers.
The flip side of the coin, however, is the prevalence of anemia. Studies indicate that its prevalence
is as high as 62%. The poor quality of food provided at canteens, combined with inflation, tends
to lower workers’ calorie intake. The need to meet production targets forces workers to cut short
lunch breaks, or even skip them altogether. They often do not drink enough water in order to avoid
going to the restroom. This predisposes them to Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). No concession is
usually made by the management for gynecological problems such as menstrual irregularities,
vaginal discharge, excessive bleeding and lower abdominal pain. The management at these
factories is predominately male.
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With the above pressures come psychosocial problems. These arise out of frustration from
the monotonous nature of the work, the risks involved, long working hours, a lack of recognition
for their work, a lack of job satisfaction, daily abuse by male supervisors, the absence of welfare
activities, and tensions at the home and at the workplace. A study on the mental health status of
women garment workers in Bangalore found that the GHQ Likert score was equal to 5 in 45.1%
of the study population, which is considered the cutoff for probable mental illness. The results
revealed hypochondriasis, symptoms of anxiety, social impairment and a feeling of dejection,
unhappiness, and felt psychological disturbance.
Apart from the psychological toll it takes, work related stress can also have a significant
impact on the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension. Neurological problems
like frequent headaches, hand tremors and peripheral neuritis are often the result of continuous
work.
Thus, a general lack of education and awareness, the absence of organized unions at the
workplace, unresponsive governmental institutions and poor sanitation and nutrition tend to
aggravate workers’ health and safety problems. Periodic medical surveillance and a responsive
grievance mechanism at all levels could stave off potential hazards at the workplace.
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NEED FOR SAFETY
1. Cost Saving
Two types of costs are incurred by the management when an accident occurs. There are
the direct costs, in the form of compensation payable to the dependents of the victim if
the accident is fatal, and medical expenses incurred in treating the patient if the accident
is non-fatal. The management, however, is not liable to meet the direct costs if the victim
is insured under the ESI scheme. When the victim is uninsured, compensation and
medical expenses are the responsibility of the management.
More serious than the direct costs are the indirect or hidden costs which the management
cannot avoid. In fact, the indirect costs are three to four times higher than the direct costs.
Hidden costs include loss on account of down-time of operators, slowed-up production
rate of other workers, materials spoiled and labour for cleaning and damages to
equipment.
2. Increased Productivity
Safety plants are efficient plants. To a large extent, safety promotes productivity.
Employees in safe plants can devote more time to improving the quality and quantity of
their output and spend less time worrying about their safety and well-being.
3. Moral
Safety is important on human grounds too. Managers must undertake accident prevention
measures to minimize the pain and suffering the injured worker and his/her family is
often exposed to as a result of the accident. An employee is a worker in the factory and
the bread-winner for his/her family. The happiness of his/her family depends upon the
health and well-being of the worker.
4. Legal
There are legal reasons too for undertaking safety measures. there are laws covering
occupational health & safety, and penalties for non-compliance have become quite
severe. The responsibility extends to the safety and health of the surrounding community,
too. The supreme court held….
An enterprise which is engaged in a hazardous or inherently dangerous industry which
poses a potential threat to the health and safety of the persons working in the factory
and industry in the surrounding areas, owes an absolute and non-delegable duty to the
community to ensure that no harm results to anyone on account of the hazardous or
inherently dangerous nature. this implies unlimited liability.
The civil law establishes the extent of damages or compensation. In the criminal law,
sentences are prescribed under the pollution control laws. There is no legal ceiling on the
extent of liability.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK
According to Cole (2002), employer has a common law duty to provide a safe place of
work for his or her employees and is liable at common law for accidents encounter by his or her
employees in the course of their employment. The duties (regarding health and safety) which
employer owes his or her employees basically include the following:
The provision of a safe place of employment.
The provision of safe means of access to work.
The provision of safe systems of working.
The provision of adequate equipment, materials and clothing to enable employees
to carry out their work safely.
The provision of competent co-workers.
A duty of care to ensure that employees are not subjected to any unreasonable risks
in the workplace.
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE HEALTH & SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The components of effective health and safety management system are briefly explained
below:
a) Management Leadership & Organizational Commitment:
For this system to be effective, management must show leadership and commitment to
the program. To achieve this, management should put the organization’s expectation
around health and safety into writing by developing a health and safety policy.
Employees who forms part of the health and safety committee, should be involved in
writing the policy, and to be signed by senior operating officer, to indicate the
commitment of management.
b) Roles & Responsibilities:
Clearly defined and well communicated health and safety roles and responsibilities for
all levels of the organizations will create an expectation of a standard level of
performance and accountability among employees, contractors, and visitors. All levels
must be aware of them individual roles and responsibilities under both state law and
company standards.
c) Management Commitment:
For a health and safety management system to be effective, management at all levels,
should demonstrate their support of the health and safety program. This may be
demonstrated through management, participation in health and safety leadership training
meetings, facility inspections incident investigations etc.
d) Employee Participation:
It is important for workers to be involved in the development of the system in order to
create ownership as well as help a better fit with the culture of the organization.
e) Hazard Identification & Assessment Process:
Employers are required to assess a work site for existing and potential hazards before
work begins. Hazard assessment data could be used to determine what worker–training
7. 7
needs to be done, and to build the content of employee orientations and job training
hazard assessment data could be used as the basis for inspection checklists. In the case
of incident investigation, hazard assessment and control data can be used to help
determine if a system failure was the cause of an incident.
f) Determine Controls:
Address identified hazards by assigning methods of control to eliminate or reduce the
hazard. The most effective controls can be determined based on legal requirements,
manufacturers’ specifications, company rules, industry best practices, and worker inputs.
g) Hazard Control:
Once the hazard assessments are completed, the next step in the development of health
and safety management system is the implementation of control measures to eliminate
or reduce the risk of harm to workers. In this case, employers should take all reasonable
steps to eliminate or control identified hazards in order to make the workplace safer.
h) Enforcement of Controls:
To enforce control methods, develop a constructive enforcement policy, and
communicate the consequences to employees and the steps that will be taken if
noncompliance occurs.
i) Emergency Response Plan:
A serious emergency (Such as explosion, fire, or flood) could seriously affect the
operation of a business and put the health, safety, and livelihood of many employees in
jeopardy. The best health and safety management system cannot protect your company
from all natural or unexpected disasters; however, having a good emergency response
plan (ERP) in place can reduce the severity and risk of loss. Knowing what to do and
who to contact can save lives and reduce costs if disaster should strike.
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STATUTORY PROVISIONS OF SAFETY IN GARMENT INDUSTRY
According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the safety of the
workers are stated in the sections 21 to 41. They are
1) Fencing of Machinery (Sec 21):
In every factory, every dangerous part of any machinery, every moving part of a prime
mover and every flywheel connected to prime mover the head-race and tail-race of every
water wheel and water turbine, and every part of an electric generator, motor or rotary
converter, every part of transmission machinery, must be securely fenced by safeguards
of substantial construction.
2) Work on or near Machinery in Motion (Sec 22):
It is necessary to examine any part of the machinery while it is motion. The examination
and lubrication of the machinery, while in motion, should be carried out only by a
specially-trained adult worker wearing tight-fitting clothing.
3) Employment of Young Persons on Dangerous Machines (Sec 23):
A young person should not be allowed to work at dangerous machines unless, has been
sufficiently instructed and received sufficient training.
4) Striking Gear and Devices for Cutting off Power (Sec 24):
In every factory, suitable striking gear or other efficient mechanical appliance has to be
provided, maintained and used to move driving belts.
5) Self-acting Machines (Sec 25):
No travelling part of a self-acting machine in any factory and no material carried thereon
shall be allowed to run on its outward or inward traverse within a distance of 18 inches
from any fixed structure which is not a part of the machine, if a person is liable to pass
over the space over which it runs.
6) Casing of New Machinery (Sec 26):
All machinery driven by power, every set-screw, bolt or key or any revolving shaft,
spindle, wheel or pinion, spur, worm and other toothed or friction-gearing has to be
properly encased or guarded in order to prevent danger to the workmen.
7) Prohibition of employment of Women and Children near Cotton Openers (Sec 27):
Women and child workers are prohibited to be employed in any part of a factory for
pressing cotton in which a cotton opener is at work.
8) Hoists, Lifts, Lifting Machines (Sec 28 &29):
Lifting machines, chains, ropes and lifting tackles must be of good mechanical
construction, sound material and adequate strength and free from defects. They are to be
properly maintained and thoroughly examined by a competent person at least once in
every 6 months.
9) Revolving Machinery (Sec 30):
The maximum safe working peripheral speed of every grindstone or abrasive wheel shall
be permanently affixed. Safe working peripheral speed of every revolving vessel, cage,
basket, flywheel, pulley or disc has also to be ensured.
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10) Pressure Plant (Sec 31):
In any factory operation is carried on at a pressure above the atmospheric pressure,
effective arrangements shall be taken to ensure that the safe working pressure is not
exceeded.
11) Floors, Stairs and Means of Access (Sec 32):
In every factory all floors, steps, stairs, passages and gangways shall be of sound
construction and properly kept and maintained.
12) Pits, Sumps, Openings in Floors (Sec 33):
Every fixed vessel, sump, tank, pit or opening in the ground or in a floor, which may be
a source of danger shall be either securely covered or securely fenced.
13) Excessive Weights (Sec 34):
No person is to be employed in any factory to lift, carry or move any load so heavy as is
likely to cause him injury.
14) Protection of Eyes (Sec 35):
The state government may require the provision of effective screens or suitable goggles
if the risk of injury to the eyes is caused from particles or fragments thrown off in the
manufacturing process or from exposure to excessive light.
15) Precautions against Dangerous Fumes (Sec 36):
In any factory, no person shall be allowed to enter any chamber, tank, vat, pipe, flue or
other confined space in which dangerous fumes are likely to be present to an extent
involving risks to persons.
16) Explosive or Inflammable Dust, Gas (Sec 37):
All practicable measures have to be taken to prevent explosion by, effective enclosure of
plant and machinery, removal or prevention of the accumulation of dust, gas etc. and
exclusion or effective enclosure of all possible sources of ignition.
17) Precaution in case of Fire (Sec 38):
Every factory has to be provided with adequate means of escape in case of fire. Effective
and clearly audible means of giving warning in the case of fire have to be provided. A
free passage-way giving access to each means of escape in case of fire has to be
maintained.
18) Power to require Specifications of Defective Parts or Tests of Stability (Sec 39):
The factory inspector to serve on the manager of a factory to furnish specifications of
defective parts or he may order the manager to carry out tests as he may specify and to
inform him of the results.
19) Safety of Buildings & Machinery (Sec 40):
Every factory should adopt the measures to ensure the safety of the buildings and
machinery. The factory must employ the required safety officers according to the number
of workers working in the factory.
20) Power to Make Rules (Sec 41):
The state government has the power to make rules to supplement the provisions relating
to safety contained in the Act.
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WHAT IS HEALTH
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the
absence of diseases. It’s a positive and dynamic concept which means something more than the
absence of illness.
a) Physical Health:
The health of employees results in reduced productivity, high unsafe acts, and increased
absenteeism. A healthy worker, on the other hand, produces results opposite to these. In
other words, healthy employees are more productive, more safe conscious, and are more
regular to work. The worker who is healthy is always cheerful, confident looking and is
an invaluable asset to the organization.
b) Mental Health:
In recent years, mental health of employees, particularly that of executives, has engaged
the attention of employers. Three reasons may be given for this development. First,
mental breakdowns are common in modern days because of pressures and tensions.
Second, mental disturbances of various types result in reduced productivity and lower
profits for the organization. Third, mental illness takes its toll through alcoholism, high
employee turnover, and poor human relationships. A mental health service is generally
rendered in the following ways
i. Psychiatric counselling.
ii. Co-operation and consultation with outside psychiatrists and specialists.
iii. Education of company personnel in the manner and the importance of
mental health.
iv. Development & maintenance of an effective human relations
programmes.
IDENTIFYING HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE
Some occupational diseases have been recognized for many years, and affect workers’ in
different ways depending on the nature of the hazard, the route of exposure, the dose, etc. Some
well-known occupational diseases include:
1) Asbestosis (caused by asbestos, which is common in insulation, automobile brake linings,
etc.)
2) Silicosis (caused by silica, which is common in mining, sandblasting, etc.)
3) Lead poisoning (caused by lead, which is common in battery plants, paint factories, etc.)
4) Noise-induced hearing loss (caused by noise, which is common in many workplaces,
including airports, and workplaces where noisy machines, such as presses or drills, etc.)
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IMPORTANCE OF MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT ON HEALTH & SAFETY
In order to develop a successful health and safety programmes, it is essential that there be
strong management commitment and strong worker participation in the effort to create and
maintain a safe and healthy workplace. An effective management addresses all work-related
hazards, not only those covered by government standards.
All levels of management must make health and safety a priority. They must communicate
this by going out into the worksite to talk with workers about their concerns and to observe work
procedures and equipment. In each workplace, the lines of responsibility from top to bottom need
to be clear, and workers should know who is responsible for different health and safety issues.
STATUTORY PROVISIONS OF HEALTH IN GARMENT INDUSTRY
According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the health of the
workers are stated in the sections 11 to 20. They are
1. Cleanliness (Sec 11):
Every factory shall be kept clean by daily sweeping or washing the floors and workrooms
and by using disinfectants where every necessary. Walls, doors and windows shall be
repainted or varnished at least once in every 5 years.
2. Disposal of Wastes and Effluents (Sec 12):
The waste materials produced from the manufacturing process must be effectively
disposed of wastes.
3. Ventilation and Temperature (Sec 13):
There must be provision for adequate ventilation for the circulation of fresh air. The
temperature must be kept at a comfortable level. Hot parts of machines must be separated
and insulated. The State Government may make rules for the keeping of thermometers
in specified places and the adoption of methods which will keep the temperature low.
4. Removal of Dust and Fumes (Sec 14):
If the manufacturing process used gives off injurious or offensive dust and steps must be
taken so that they are not inhaled or accumulated. The exhaust fumes of internal
combustion engines must be conducted outside the factory.
5. Artificial Humidification (Sec 15):
The water used for this purpose must be pure. The State Government can frame rules
regarding the process of humidification etc. The water used for humidification shall be
taken from a public supply or other source of drinking water and must be effectively
purified before use.
6. Overcrowding (Sec 16):
There must be no overcrowding in a factory. In factories existing before the
commencement of the Act there must be at least 9.9 cubic meters of space per worker.
For factories built afterwards, there must be at least 4.2 cubic meters of space. The chief
inspector of factories can also prescribe the maximum number of workers who can work
in each work room.
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7. Lighting (Sec 17):
Factories must be well lighted. Effective measures must be adopted to prevent glare or
formation of shadows which might cause eye strain.
8. Drinking water (Sec 18):
Arrangements must be made to provide a sufficient supply of wholesome drinking water.
All supply points of such water must be marked “drinking water”. No such points shall
be within 20 ft. (or 7.5 meters) of any latrine, washing place etc. Factories employing
more than 250 workers must cool the water during the hot weather.
9. Toilet Facilities (Sec 19):
Every factory must provide sufficient number of latrines and urinals. There must be
separate provisions for male and female workers. Latrines and urinals must be kept in a
clean and sanitary condition. In factories employing more than 250 workers, they shall
be of prescribed sanitary types.
10. Spittoons (Sec 20):
A sufficient number of spittoons must be provided at convenient places, in a clean and
hygienic condition. The State Government may take rules regarding their number,
location and maintenance.
HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMME
Effective workplace health and safety programmes can help to save the lives of workers
by reducing hazards and their consequences. Health and safety programmes also have positive
effects on both worker morale and productivity, which are important benefits. At the same time,
effective programmes can save employers a great deal of money. For all of the reasons given
below, it is crucial that employers, workers and unions are committed to health and safety.
Workplace hazards are controlled - at the source whenever possible.
Records of any exposure are maintained for many years.
Both workers and employers are informed about health and safety risks in the
workplace.
There is an active and effective health and safety committee that includes both
workers and management.
Worker health and safety efforts are ongoing.
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SAFETY & HEALTH POLICY STATEMENT
XYZ Manufacturing Company believes that NO JOB OR TASK IS MORE IMPORTANT
THAN WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY.
If a job represents a potential safety or health threat, every effort will be made to plan a safe way
to complete the task in a safe manner.
Every procedure must be a safe procedure. Shortcuts in safe procedures by management and all
other associates will not be tolerated.
If a worker observes any unsafe or unprotected exposure, which may pose a potential threat to
their safety & health, he or she must inform management immediately.
If a job cannot be done safely…………. It will not be done.
Every employee is entitled to a safe and healthful place in which to work.
SAFETY & HEALTH GOALS
The following goals have been established for XYZ Manufacturing Company:
1. Provide workers with a safe work environment.
2. Conduct routine/regular workplace inspections.
3. Provide Personal Protective Equipment.
4. Develop and implement safe work procedures and rules.
5. Provide on-going safety training
6. Enforce safety rules and appropriate discipline.
7. Provide on-going property conservation practices.
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NEW EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION
All new employees must attend our Safety Orientation Session prior to starting work within their
assigned area. This session will be conducted under the direction of the Safety Director and in
coordination with Human Resources. Upon completion of the Safety Orientation Session, each
new employee will be required to acknowledge that they have received, understand, and will abide
by the XYZ Company Safety Program. All participants must sign a statement verifying that they
have completed the session. This report will be filed in the employee’s personnel file. The
following topics will be covered in the Safety Orientation Session:
1. Company History
2. Safety Program/Policy & Work rules
3. Responsibilities
4. Safety Education/Training
5. Safety Audit/Inspections
6. Accident Reporting/Investigation Requirements
7. First Aid & Blood borne Pathogens
8. Personal Protective Equipment
9. Tool & Equipment Use
10. Material Handling
11. Lockout-Tag out
12. Machine Guarding
13. MVR Requirements
14. Hazard Communication
15. Emergency Action
16. Return-to-work & Light Duty Assignments
All new hires will be provided an opportunity to ask any question that pertains to their job duties
and employment at XYZ Manufacturing Company
SAFETY & TRAINING
All in-house Safety & Training sessions will be coordinated by (Name of Safety Director).
Foremen and Assistant Foremen are required to be trained in Accident Investigation Procedures
by the Safety Director.
Operators of forklift trucks are to be trained in-house in accordance with federal/state
requirements. Operators must attend classroom instruction as well as “behind the wheel
training”.
All employees who work with, or are exposed to, hazardous chemicals are to be trained in
Hazard Communication, in accordance with federal and state regulations.
All employees who don respirators are to be trained in accordance with federal and state
regulations. Those individuals who don respirators are required to have annual physicals.
Machine operators and maintenance personnel are to be trained in Lockout/Tag out procedures.
Individual locks/keys will be assigned to those individuals participating in the LOTO program.
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All employees who don Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be trained in the proper use of
such equipment.
First-aid training and Blood borne Pathogen (BBP) training will be conducted by (Name of
Hospital) and the local chapter of the American Red Cross.
Machine/Equipment operators are to be trained in-house. Emphasis is to be placed on point of
operation guarding. No employee is allowed to operate a machine unless it is properly guarded.
Employees who operate company vehicles are required to participate in an in-house Defensive
Driving Program.
All production, shipping, and warehouse employees are required to attend a 4-hour in-house safety
training session on an annual basis. This partial day session is held each January in the conference
room. The Safety Director will decide the topic material; however, each annual session is to place
emphasis on material handling and machine guarding.
All employees, at time of hire, are to be trained in Emergency Action and proper evacuation of
building in case of an emergency. Each employee is to be given instruction/training on where to
exit and where to locate in the event of an emergency.
Foremen and Assistant Foremen are to meet with the Safety Director on a quarterly basis to discuss
training needs and goals.
EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Each employee is responsible to follow established policies and procedures. Regular
attendance is required of all. Following directions is critical. Responsibility does not end with just
taking care of you. Unsafe working conditions and acts must be reported to management. It is the
responsibility of each employee to work in a professional and safe manner.
ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION/REPORTING
All injuries/illnesses must be reported to management as soon as possible.
It is the policy of XYZ Manufacturing Company to have all injuries/illnesses investigated
by Foremen or Assistant Foremen within 24 hours of incident. A formal Accident
Investigation Form (available from the Safety Director) must be forwarded to the Safety
Director as soon as possible.
It is important that all incidents be reported, no matter how slight.
Any property/liability loss claim must also be reported to management as soon as possible.
The Safety Director will conduct a loss investigation of all property/liability claims.
16. 16
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes all clothing and accessories designed to
protect against workplace hazards. In some situations, the only available protection for employees
will be the use of PPE and often in emergencies, PPE will be required for the safety of the workers.
As required by federal and state regulations, personal protective equipment is essential for
the protection of eyes, ears, face and other body parts when working around hazardous machinery
and equipment. All PPE must meet established standards (ANSI, NIOSH, OSHA, etc.).
All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is provided by XYZ Manufacturing Company.
Employees are not allowed to provide their own PPE unless authorized by the Safety Director. As
a general rule, only company provided PPE is allowed.
Hazard Assessments have been completed throughout the production and warehouse areas
of XYZ Manufacturing Company. PPE is required in the following areas:
Warehouse
All employees and visitors are required to wear approved hard hats and eye protection. Steel-toed
shoes/boots required of warehouse workers.
Welding Shop
All employees and visitors are required to wear approved eye protection. Approved hard hats
required of all welders. Approved hearing protection required of all welders. Welders are also
required to don approved PPE in the form of goggles, helmet, leather coat, apron, steel-toed work
boot, gloves, no cuff pants and other
equipment as deemed necessary by the Safety Director. Mechanical ventilation is required at all
welding stations.
Paint Shop
All employees and visitors are required to wear approved eye protection. Spray painters are
required to wear company provided work clothing (disposable shirt/pants). Approved respirators
are required during those times when spray painting, mixing, or clean-up is taking place. Steel-
toed boots/shoes required of paint sprayers. All spray painting is to be conducted within the paint
spray booth. Mechanical ventilation system is to be in operation when spray painting takes place.
General Production Areas
Approved eye protection required of all who enter shop.
Visitor glasses (eye protection) are available in main office as well as next to loading dock door
and warehouse entrance.
XYZ Manufacturing Company will reimburse employee (maximum - $100) each 24 months for
the purchase of approved steel-toed boot/shoe.
XYZ Manufacturing Company will provide prescription eye wear (approved safety eye protection)
for those individuals requesting same. See Safety Director for additional information.
19. 19
SAFETY RULES
All safety rules must be obeyed. Failure to do so will result in strict disciplinary action.
1. All injuries must be reported as soon as possible.
2. No horseplay, alcohol, or drugs allowed on premises.
3. No alcohol usage allowed during lunch break.
4. PPE must be worn as prescribed by management.
5. All tools/equipment must be maintained in good condition.
6. Only appropriate tools shall be used for specific jobs.
7. All guards must be kept in place.
8. No spliced electrical cords/wiring allowed.
9. Only authorized personnel can operate forklift vehicles.
10. Smoking allowed only in lunchroom.
11. Seat belt use required of all drivers/passengers.
12. All OSHA Safety Standards will be followed for job processes requiring respiratory
protection.
13. All OSHA Safety Standards concerning Lockout/Tag out of energized equipment will be
followed.
14. All OSHA Safety Standards concerning Hazard Communications will be followed.
15. All OSHA Safety Standards concerning Forklift Safety will be followed.
20. 20
SAFETY COMMITTEE
The primary purpose of the Safety Committee is to promote safety awareness and reduce
the potential for injury/loss throughout XYZ Manufacturing Company.
The Safety Committee is to be chaired by the Safety Director and include representatives
from each department (total number of committee members not to exceed five individuals).
Members can be volunteers or appointed. Membership is limited to two terms (1 year each) during
any four-year period.
Meetings are to be scheduled, when possible, for the same day each month (2nd Tuesday
of each month – 2:00 p.m.). All meetings are to take place in the conference room. Each meeting
should have a set agenda and minutes of each meeting recorded. A copy of the minutes shall be
forwarded to the Executive Vice-President within 48 hours of meeting.
Each Safety Committee Meeting shall include a review of the prior month’s minutes as
well as a review of the prior month’s injury/illness log and investigations of losses/claims. Past
injuries/claims/losses need to be reviewed for any patterns or trends.
General functions of the Safety Committee can include:
1. Identifying workplace hazards
2. Enforcement of Safety Rules
3. Measuring safety performance
4. Reducing frequency/severity of injuries
5. Creating safety policies
6. Developing and monitoring safety
programs
Specific tasks of the Safety Committee can
include:
1. Conducting self-inspections of the
workplace
2. Review employee reports of hazards
3. Assist in safety training
4. Creating safety incentive programs
5. Publish/distribute safety newsletter
6. Inspect PPE
7. Post safety posters/slogans on bulletin board
8. Identify Light Duty Jobs
The Safety Committee of XYZ Manufacturing Company was formed to promote safety
throughout our organization. The benefits of a Safety Committee are numerous and XYZ
Manufacturing believes that this is a forum for problem solving. The Safety Committee has an
open door policy and welcomes suggestions.
21. 21
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place to ensure employee safety from fire and
other emergency. At the time of an emergency, all employees should know what type of evacuation
is necessary and what their role is in carrying out the plan. In some emergencies total and
immediate evacuation will be necessary. In other emergencies only partial evacuation may be
necessary.
When a fire is detected it is necessary that the fire alarm pull station be activated as soon
as possible. The fire alarm will notify the emergency response team who will perform assigned
duties. The activation of the alarm will also notify the local fire department.
In the event of bomb threat, toxic chemical release, hazardous weather, or other
emergencies – notification will be made over the public address system.
In the event of fire, bomb threat, or toxic chemical release; employees are to proceed to the
nearest available and safe exit and leave the building as soon as possible. Floor plans (maps) and
exits have been posted in each department.
It is of critical importance that all employees and visitors are accounted for.
Shop and Warehouse employees are to meet in the __________ Parking Lot on _______ Street.
Secondary location is the intersection of _________ and ________ Street.
Office employees are to meet in the __________ Parking lot on __________ Street. Secondary
location is the intersection of __________ and __________ Street.
In the event of Weather emergencies all employees (and visitors) are to evacuate their
assigned area and report to the lower level bomb shelter. Again, it is of critical importance that all
employees and visitors are accounted for.
Supervisors within each area shall take a head count at the designated meeting areas. It is the
responsibility of each supervisor to advise fire and police departments of any missing persons.
There will be evacuation training each April and October (full evacuation to designated areas).
22. 22
SAFETY DISCIPLINE
Management personnel at all levels are responsible for taking action when a violation is
observed. If a violation is observed, they must take action immediately to correct the violation and
enforce this disciplinary policy. Employees who fail to follow safety rules and regulations
established to protect them and their fellow employees endanger themselves and others.
Visitors and contractors on site are also required to abide by the safety rules and regulations.
The following procedures will be followed when a violation is observed:
FIRST VIOLATION
Verbal warning with written confirmation in personnel file.
SECOND VIOLATION
Written warning and ½ day suspension (written confirmation in personnel file).
THIRD VIOLATION
Written warning and one-week suspension (written confirmation in personnel file).
FOURTH VIOLATION
Termination (written confirmation in personnel file).
*As warranted by type of violation (use of drugs/alcohol, criminal activity, etc.) termination
of employment may take place after any such violation.
EMPLOYEE CONFIRMATION OF SAFETY PROGRAM
This is to certify that I, ___________________________________, have read and will
observe the safety practices as outlined in this booklet and other rules presented to me during my
employment with XYZ Manufacturing Company. I understand that the safety practices listed are
not the only procedures and/or rules that I will be called upon to follow.
I also understand that it is a requirement of my employment that any injury/illness be
reported to my supervisor immediately.
SIGNED _________________________________________
WITNESS ________________________________________
DATE _______________________
This form to be filed in personnel file
The information and suggestions contained in this material have been developed from
sources believed to be reliable. However, Frankenmuth accepts no legal responsibility for the
correctness or completeness of this material, or its application to specific factual situations.
23. 23
FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS & CONCLUSIONS
FINDINGS
Only 20% of the respondents respond that they are not aware of the health and safety
measures and 80% of the respondents are aware of the health and safety measures.
60% of the respondents say that they have no effective arrangements for communicating
health and safety matters; only 40% agrees that they have effective arrangements for
communicating health and safety matters.
Majority of the respondents are told that company is providing medical facility to the
workers.
70% of the respondents respond that they attended the health and safety training
Programme but 30% of the respondents says that they are not attended any health and safety
training Programme conducted in the company.
Most of the respondents respond that sometimes they have proper drinking water and some
of the respondents says often they have proper drinking water and very few of the
respondents say that always they have proper drinking water.
77% of the respondents strongly agree that they are aware about the first aid activities and
contents of the first aid kit and 23% of the respondents simply agree that they are aware
about the first aid activities and contents of the first aid kit.
Majority of the respondents strongly agree that the company implements effective
disciplinary procedures and few of the respondents simply agree that the company
implements effective disciplinary procedures.
55% of the respondents strongly agree that their environment is safe to work and 23%% of
the respondents simply agree that their environment is safe to work and 22% of the
respondents say that they have no idea about the safe working environment.
Majority of the respondents says often they are maintaining the machines properly and
some of the respondents respond that sometimes they are maintaining the machines
properly and only very few of the respondents says rarely they are maintaining the
machines properly.
48% of the respondents say often the accidents are happened and 17% of the respondents
say rarely the accidents are happened and 28% of the respondents respond that sometimes
the accidents are happened and only 7% of the respondents say that always the accidents
are happened.
87% of the respondents say that they are simply satisfied with the health and safety
measures and 13% of the respondents say that they have no idea about the satisfaction level
from health and safety measures.
55% of the respondents say that the role of management is better and 18% of the
respondents say that the role of management is best and 27% of the respondents respond
that the role of management in implementing health and safety is good.
24. 24
RECOMMENDATIONS/ SUGGESTIONS:
The company has to create the awareness for the workers regarding health and safety.
They have to provide effective arrangements to the workers for communicating their
health and safety matters.
It is better to provide frequent health and safety training, at least once in a year.
The company has to provide enough drinking water facility available at all the time.
The management has to take necessary steps to reduce the stress level of the workers.
Orientation programmes can be conducted to make the workers to feel that their work
environment is safe to work.
The maintenance department has to maintain the machines properly to reduce lead-time.
Proper training has to be given to the workers to avoid frequent accidents.
Meditation practices can be given to avoid electric shocks, finger injuries etc. due to lack
of concentration.
Safety committee has to be formed to monitor the health and safety issues.
The company has to conduct the regular inspections to ensure higher level of safety in the
workplace.
Cordial relationship has to be maintained between the management and the workers to
implement the health and safety policies and measures in a smooth manner.
CONCLUSION:
It is revealed from the study that, the health and safety measures adopted in Innovative
Cuisine Pvt. Ltd. are provided to the workers according to the provisions of the factories Act. It
reveals that the awareness of the workers about health and safety in the workplace is inadequate.
Also repeated accidents like electric shocks, finger injuries are occurred in the workplace. Suitable
ideas were suggested to avoid those accidents and to improve the health and safety measures. The
role of management in implementing health and safety in the organization is very effective. Most
of the workers were satisfied with the health and safety measures adopted in the company. If the
company implements effective disciplinary procedures; it will help the company to go with their
policies and also to maintain health and safety in the organization.
25. 25
REFERANCE
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Arun Monappa (1994); Industrial Relation (8th Edition)
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Armstrong, M. (2004); Handbook of Human Resources Management Practice (9th
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P. Subba Rao (2008); Essentials of Human Resource Management and Industrial
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Emmanuel I. Akpan (2011); Effective Safety & Health Management Policy for Improved
Performance of Organization in Africa: International Journal of Business &
Management, Volume 6, No. 3, pp. 159-165.
D.M. Yakubu & I. M. Bakri (2013); Evaluation of Safety & Health Performance on
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Noor Aina Amrirah, Wan Izatul Asma, Shaladdin Muda & Aziz Amiri (2013);
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Manufacturing Industries: Asian Social Science, Volume 9, No. 7, pp. 283-289.
Collins Badu Agyemang, Joseph Gerald Nyanyofio & Gerald Dapaah Gyamfi (2014);
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Fariba Kiani (2014); Preventing injuries in workers: the role of management practices in
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