Articles tagged: Safety Training

In many small municipalities, the role of safety officer is often assigned rather than developed. It may fall to a supervisor, a senior operator, or a dedicated employee who simply has an interest in safety. In the best cases, that individual may bring experience from a volunteer fire department or …

A municipal safety officer plays a critical role in protecting public works employees, reducing organizational risk, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. In an environment where crews are exposed to traffic, heavy equipment, confined spaces, and unpredictable field conditions, the safety…

A strong safety training program is one of the most important investments a public works or highway department can make. Crews work around heavy equipment, traffic, confined spaces, chemical hazards, and unpredictable weather. Training gives workers the knowledge and confidence to perform tasks safe…

When a trench collapses, a culvert fails, heavy equipment tips, or a large object pins a worker, the instinct is to free the trapped person as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, removing the pressure too rapidly can trigger a life-threatening medical emergency known as crush syndrome. Crush syndrom…

A Job Safety Analysis, often called a JSA, is one of the most effective tools a public works department can use to prevent accidents. It breaks a job into simple steps, identifies the hazards in each step, and outlines the controls crews must use to stay safe. A strong JSA improves safety, strengthe…

Public works crews encounter dead animals regularly, especially along rural routes and high speed highways. Although it is a common task, handling roadkill carries real health risks. Rabies, Lyme disease, salmonella, e coli, and other pathogens can be present on or around a carcass. Proper PPE, safe…

Small public works departments face unique challenges when it comes to safety. Crews are often small, responsibilities are broad, and workers may switch tasks several times a day. Even without the resources of large agencies, smaller departments can still build an exceptional safety culture that pro…

Gas monitors are essential safety tools for crews who work in confined spaces, manholes, pump stations, lift stations, culverts, and other locations where hazardous atmospheres can form. A gas monitor provides real-time information about oxygen levels, explosive gases, and toxic contaminants. When u…

Heat stroke is one of the most dangerous heat-related illnesses affecting outdoor workers, especially public works crews who spend long hours repairing roads, maintaining drainage systems, and operating heavy equipment. When temperatures rise, the risk rises with them. Recognizing the early signs an…