How to Write a Safety Program
Writing a safety program not only is required by OSHA but also offers a detailed plan in the event of an emergency and day-to-day accident prevention. A well thought out safety program protects the business against lawsuits informing the workers of safety protocol. Each workplace must address its own hazards.
- Print the safety program cover with the company logo. Title the document specifying the department and OSHA codes covered.
- Draft a cover letter signed by the CEO or owner of the company.
- Create a concise table of contents.
- Each new employee should sign a document confirming he or she received the document.
- Include an Equal Opportunity Statement citing anti-discrimination against race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, equal pay for equal work, retaliation, sex, pregnancy, disability, gender or religion.
- Page one or first section should include:
a. New employee safety introduction
b. Industry safety procedures and practices
c. Standard business procedure
d. Corrosive chemical safety (if applicable)
e. Personnel protection and safety precautions
f. Accident investigation procedure
g. Personnel accountability and control
h. Hazardous materials handling - The manual should include precise employee instructions regarding whom to call in the event of an accident. Procedure for non-compliance of regulations and supervisory protocols.
- List location of fire exits. Describe the fire escape plan.
- Describe the location of the first aid kit, emergency numbers and AED. Detail first aid procedures.
- Detail company procedure in the event of sexual harassment or violence. List intolerable offenses such as alcohol or drug use.
- Compile safety procedures for all equipment including lifting, proper back ergonomics and carpel tunnel prevention.
- Reinforce OSHA regulations, authorities of the documents and the right to change, update or modify policy without notice.