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After over-indulging at Christmas you may feel that dieting and exercise should be your New Year’s resolution. That’s all well and good, but in addition to getting fit, why don’t you do something that could potentially have a lasting positive impact not just for you, but for everyone around you?

If everyone can get through 2014 with the aim of working safely, the benefits could be extensive. From employees to Managing Directors, everyone can do their bit to bring about improvement.

It is important to remember that small steps can help to achieve a health and safety culture.

Now is as good a time as any to decide that you’re going to take that positive step.  Nobody should accept a situation where they know that  a serious accident could occur at any minute, but at the same time, they have not done their bit to do something about it.  Even something as basic as tidying up after making a mess, could have benefits.  Improved housekeeping sends out a clear signal to all staff and visitors and is something that in theory, should be easy to achieve.  Workers at all levels need to have health and safety in the backs of their minds.

Employers must ensure that people are safe during their business activities and that all staff have a level of health and safety understanding. Failure to have policies and procedures can lead to substantial business costs ranging from downtime, reputational damage, absenteeism and of course, personal liability for directors.

Remember, you can do all this at the same time as getting into shape for a marathon!

Contact us should you require assistance from a dedicated and committed health and safety person!

1. Be aware of your surroundings and who is close to you. Look for suspicious persons, etc. when you are in any area.
2. Do not place your wallet or purse in a bag or unsecured pocket, especially where it can be seen.
3. Shop in pairs at the very least. Take a friend or family member shopping with you. There is something to be said for safety in numbers, it’s more fun too.
4. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with credit, charge or debit cards. Carry cash and wallets in a front pocket to reduce your chances of having your pocket picked.
5. Do you actually need the whole wallet or purse full of cards? Could one do and the rest be left secure at home? Plus put the card cancellation number into your phone or write it down in case the card is lost or stolen then you can report it really quickly.
6. When using a keypad either in store or at a cash point to type your pin number always shield it with your other hand to prevent others seeing what you are keying in.
7. Do not leave bags unattended or behind you whilst examining goods or completing      transactions. They could ‘walk’.
8. Don’t leave car phones, purses, CD cases, or any other item of value in your parked car where they can be seen whilst you are off shopping. Always conceal these items.
9. Don’t leave purchased merchandise in your parked car where it can be seen whilst you pop back for that last item. Conceal these items also, thieves strike quickly.
10. As you return to your car, make sure to keep your car key in your hand do not switch off as you approach your car look around and under it as you approach, if anyone acting suspicious close to it move away and seek assistance.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR from Walker Health & Safety Services!!!

Some of you may already have your Christmas tree up. If you have or haven’t please take note of this information.

Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer. Each year, the fire services respond to an average of 200 structure fires caused by Christmas trees.

Picking the tree

• If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labelled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1″ – 2″ from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, lights or any other source of heat.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

• Use lights that conform to BS standards. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Always read manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving work, home or going to bed.

After Christmas

• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the workplace, home or garage, or placed outside. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Merry Christmas!!!