Work Safety Principles
- The four main principles of work safety are:
- Use the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) for the job.
- One hand for me, one hand for the ship. While this is especially important in heavier seas, it should be noted that ships can pitch and heave at unexpected times. Holding on to handrails and other secure points is an important part of avoiding injuries. Keep in mind that the leading cause of injuries on ships are falls.
- Lift with your legs, not your back. Essentially, use proper lifting techniques such that you’re engaging your leg muscles (usually by squatting down) rather than bending at the hips and using the muscles in your back.
- Get help when you need it. Certain tasks are much more dangerous if performed by just one person. Additionally, if you’re unsure how to do the job or you’re unfamiliar with the tools required to do it, get help from others.
- The number one way to reduce accidents is improving safety awareness. Recognizing when things are unsafe and may need to be brought to the attention of supervisors is an important part of keeping yourself and others safe.