GOOD WORK HABITS Prevent Accidents

• Planning - Look around for anything that could go wrong, eliminate the risks before you start, check and read labels and MSDS's, use the correct protective clothing and equipment, and remove from the work place anything that you could trip over or that creates a hazard, e.g., ignition sources, reactive chemicals, combustibles, etc.

• Good Housekeeping

- Keep work area clean.  Dust and debris can easily catch fire.

- Keep corridors as clear as possible to prevent tripping and falling hazards.

- Do not have more than one file drawer open at a time.

- Make sure that lighting is adequate.

- Only smoke in designated areas.

- Do not leave sharp edges sticking out.

- Clean up or report spills promptly to prevent slipping and falling hazards.

- Dispose of trash and other debris promptly.

• Training - make sure you receive proper training for the hazards, equipment and emergency response associated with your job.  Continue with update training and periodic reviews of policies and procedures.

LIFTING:

• Lift or carry only what you can handle.

• Use dollies or other mechanical equipment when appropriate.

• Ask for assistance if necessary.

Remember . . .  Use proper lifting techniques:

1.         Look over the object to be lifted.  Make sure it is not too heavy or too big.

2.         Stand Close to the object with feet apart for balance.  Make sure footing is secure.

3.         Bend from the knees, keeping your back straight.  

4.         Get a firm grip, then lift with your legs.  Lift your head and shoulders first, then let your legs push your body up slowly and smoothly.  Avoid quick, jerky motions.

5.         Carry the load close to your body to reduce strain.  Make sure you can see where you are going.  Move slowly, with small steps.

6.         Lower the load slowly, bending your knees.  Let your legs, not your back, do the work.

DO NOT twist your body.  Twisting is a major cause of injury.  If you have to change direction, move your feet first.

PUSHING AND PULLING:

• Get a good GRIP on the object, hands inside handles.

• Keep your back as STRAIGHT as possible.

•BRACE your feet for maximum leg power.

•BEND knees to get the best use of body weight.

•PULL wheeled vehicles so you can lead the way and see where you are going.

• Pick up everything spilled or dropped on the floor.

•  Use a stepladder for out-of-reach things.  Do not use chairs, boxes or other items.

• Watch your step.  Do not read while walking; do not obstruct your vision with high loads.

• Use handrails for extra support when going up or down stairs.

• Keep items (e.g., carts, stretchers, supplies) out of the way so they do not create obstacles to others.

• Walk at a safe speed to avoid falls.

• Stay alert for anything that is in the path of traffic or that makes walking hazardous.

• Report all burned out or missing lights to Physical Plant at extension 5400.

• Wear sensible shoes with non-skid soles.

•Never, under any circumstances, leave articles on stairs or in the stairwell.

• Sharp objects should be wrapped in cloth or paper before they are transported.  Dispose of sharps in designated sharps containers ONLY.

• Do not try to catch a sharp or breakable item if it falls.  LET IT FALL, then carefully sweep up the pieces and dispose of properly.

• Wastebaskets may contain broken glass or other sharp objects.  Do not reach in while emptying.  If you need to take something out, empty basket contents onto newspaper or cardboard and examine contents with your EYES, not your hands.

• Catching fingers in doors and drawers is an ever-present danger.  Use handles.

 ALWAYS REMEMBER that if you are involved in a safety incident that resulted or could have resulted in an occupational illness or bodily injury, you and your Supervisor must complete an incident report and submit it to the UMDNJ Risk and Claims department.  Always seek medical attention as necessary.