The first of the Alerts details an incident where a fault on a packaging line resulted in the need for manual intervention and, as a result, a manual handling injury.  Where the decision is taken to run equipment that has a known defect, a formal risk assessment should be carried out to identify interim precautions necessary to control hazards and risks at an acceptable level.  Manual handling tasks should be assessed and take consideration not only of the weight of the load, but also its stability, postural constraints, the workplace, the distances involved and any relevant health issues of those carrying out the task.

The second Alert details a slip, trip, fall involving a truck mixer driver who injured his hand.  Whilst the main learning point is the need for drivers, in particular, to be aware of hazards in the work environment and follow MYSPACE principles, the concerns relating to the driver having to reverse through a busy builders merchant’s yard without any assistance should also be noted.

Please review these Alerts with your teams, taking the time to discuss relevant learning points and identify any gaps in standards or procedures that should be addressed.  The Safety Alert posters can be found in the download section of UK News and they should also be displayed on relevant notice boards.  Global and UK Alerts are available from the CXME app.

Always STOP and THINK then STEP IN IF YOU NEED TO LOOK AFTER YOURSELF AND EACH OTHER.