What is a Safety Management System?

Posted on

What is a Safety Management System?

What is a Safety Management System

A Safety Management System (SMS) is a structured plan designed to keep workers safe in the workplace. It’s a system that helps companies manage safety by putting in place the right policies, procedures, and practices. The main goal of an SMS is to create a safe work environment by identifying and addressing potential hazards before they cause harm.

A good SMS is vital for businesses, especially in industries where workers face serious risks. By using an SMS, companies can reduce the chances of accidents, comply with laws and regulations, and build a culture of safety across the organization. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about making safety a core part of the company’s values, ensuring every worker knows their role in keeping the workplace safe.

Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems

An Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) is a type of Safety Management System that specifically focuses on the health and safety of workers in the workplace. It provides a step-by-step approach to managing safety, involving all employees in spotting, assessing, and controlling hazards. The goal of an OHSMS is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths by continuously improving safety practices.

Key Elements of an OHSMS:

  1. Policy and Commitment: Setting up a clear health and safety policy that shows the company’s commitment to keeping workers safe.
  2. Planning: Identifying hazards, assessing risks, and putting control measures in place. This includes setting goals for improving safety.
  3. Implementation and Operation: Developing and carrying out procedures, training programs, and communication strategies to make sure safety practices are followed.
  4. Performance Measurement: Regularly checking and evaluating safety performance to ensure the OHSMS is working well and making improvements where needed.
  5. Review and Improvement: Reviewing the OHSMS regularly to find ways to improve and update policies and procedures as necessary.

The “One-Stop” Employment Portal: Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems

Managing workplace safety and compliance can be complicated and time-consuming. However, tools like Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems have made it much easier for companies to handle their safety programs. This system is an online business application designed to make managing Health & Safety, as well as human resources and wellness programs, simple and effective.

What is an Occupational Health & Safety Management System?

An Occupational Health & Safety Management System is a user-friendly platform that helps businesses manage their Health & Safety programs efficiently. It’s designed to bring together different employment programs, making it easier for companies to meet their safety and compliance goals. The system is mobile-friendly and can be accessed from any device, whether it’s a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

Why Choose an Occupational Health & Safety Management System?

  1. Ease of Use: The system has a simple interface that makes it easy to understand and quick to implement. Its tools and features are straightforward, so even those with little technical knowledge can use it effectively.
  2. Customization: One of the best features of the Occupational Health & Safety Management System is that it can be customized to fit the specific needs of your company. The system adapts to your company’s structure and can grow as your business grows. You can also brand it with your company’s logo and colours, making it feel like a part of your organization.
  3. Cost-Effective: The system is available in different modules, so you can buy only what you need. This makes it a budget-friendly option for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need a full solution or just a few features, the system can be tailored to fit your budget.
  4. Real-Time Metrics: The platform includes a dashboard with real-time metrics, allowing employees to see their progress on tasks like training and policy sign-offs. This keeps everyone informed and ensures that any issues are quickly addressed.
  5. Scalable for Growth: As your business expands, the Occupational Health & Safety Management System can grow with you. It’s built to handle your company’s needs, no matter how big or small your organization becomes.

Core Features of Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems

  1. Custom Branding: With the Occupational Health & Safety Management System, your safety program can be customized to match your company’s branding. This helps employees see the platform as part of the company, making them more likely to engage with it.
  2. Dashboard: The dashboard gives real-time information on employees’ progress and tasks. You can customize it to show the most important information, like upcoming training sessions, policy sign-offs, and work schedules.
  3. Customization to Your Company Structure: The system is designed to match your company’s unique structure. This means the program will fit into your existing hierarchy, allowing for targeted reporting and management. You can also set permissions to ensure that only authorized people have access to certain parts of the system.
  4. Unique Login for Each User: Every user, whether they are an employee, contractor, or volunteer, gets their own login. This ensures that all actions within the system are tracked and can be attributed to the correct person, which increases accountability.
  5. Administration: The administration feature gives you full control over the system. Authorized users can manage everything from the site layout to the documents stored within it and the people who access it.
  6. User Activity Tracking: The Occupational Health & Safety Management System tracks all user activity, keeping a detailed log of actions like policy readings, training completions, and login times. This is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring that all employees are meeting their responsibilities.

Modules Available in Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems

The system offers several modules that you can choose based on your company’s needs:

Learning Management Program Module

  1. Online Training Portal: Access a library of over 300 online training courses on topics like health and safety, human resources, environmental sustainability, and wellness. The training is tailored to specific roles in your company, ensuring relevance and compliance.
  2. Course Developer Tool: If your company has its own training materials, you can upload and customize your courses. The platform also supports interactive activities and tests to help engage participants.
  3. Training Reports: Generate reports on training completion, policy sign-offs, and more. You can customize these reports to meet your specific needs and set up automated email notifications to keep everyone informed.

Policy Management Program Module

  1. Policy Libraries: Store and manage your company’s policies, procedures, hazard assessments, and forms. You can assign documents to specific employees or departments and track who has read and signed each document.
  2. Reports: Run reports to track compliance with policy requirements. The system will notify responsible parties when a document needs to be reviewed, making sure your policies are always up-to-date.
  3. Surveys: Create and send out customized surveys to get feedback from employees. Use the data to improve your safety management system and overall workplace environment.
  4. Monthly Talks: Manage and distribute important safety talks through the platform. Set deadlines, require acknowledgments, and test understanding with quizzes.
  5. SDS Catalogue: Keep a well-organized and easily accessible library of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) so that your employees can find the information they need to stay safe.
  6. COR Library: Store and track your COR (Certificate of Recognition) documents and tasks. The system helps you manage the COR process efficiently and ensures all documentation is accounted for.

Optional Add-Ons

  1. Event Scheduler Tool: Easily organize and manage training sessions, inspections, and meetings. The event scheduler allows you to handle registration, track attendance, and generate certificates.
  2. Employment Scheduler Tool: Create and manage employee work schedules online. The scheduler also allows employees to request time off, and managers can track shifts, days off, and total hours worked.
  3. Preventative Maintenance: Assign, schedule, and track maintenance tasks in your workplace. This module ensures all maintenance is completed on time and notifies third-party providers when needed.
  4. Active Integration: The Occupational Health & Safety Management System can integrate with other business systems, such as Active Directory and accounting software, to ensure all your information is up-to-date and synchronized.

Conclusion

Using a Safety Management System is crucial for protecting the health and safety of your employees and staying compliant with the law. However, managing a comprehensive safety program can be difficult without the right tools. The Occupational Health & Safety Management System offers a powerful and customizable solution that makes it easier to maintain a safe and compliant workplace.

With features like custom branding, real-time metrics, user activity tracking, and various modules tailored to your company’s needs, this system acts as a “One-Stop” Employment Portal. It can perform the work of an assistant at a fraction of the cost. Whether you need a learning management system, policy management, or scheduling tools, the Occupational Health & Safety Management System provides an affordable and efficient solution to support your business.

Ready to take the next step in optimizing your Health & Safety program? Contact us today at (905) 760-2045 Ext. 5106 or esystems@fast-rescue.com to learn more about how the Occupational Health & Safety Management System can benefit your organization.


Comprehensive Guide to Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

Posted on

Comprehensive Guide to Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

Comprehensive Guide to Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

Ensuring the safety of your facility is paramount, and having the right fire safety equipment in place is a crucial step in achieving that goal. This guide will walk you through the importance of fire extinguisher and cabinet solutions, the benefits of professional fire equipment service, and how to ensure your facility is adequately protected.

The Importance of Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

Fire extinguishers are essential for immediate response to fire outbreaks, preventing them from escalating into uncontrollable blazes. Equally important is the proper storage and accessibility of these extinguishers, which is where fire extinguisher cabinets come into play. These cabinets protect extinguishers from environmental factors and unauthorized access while ensuring they are readily available in an emergency.

Why You Need Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

  1. Protection from Damage: Fire extinguisher cabinets shield your equipment from dust, debris, and physical damage, ensuring they remain functional when needed.
  2. Compliance with Regulations: Properly housed fire extinguishers help you comply with local fire safety regulations.
  3. Improved Accessibility: Cabinets make it easy to locate and access extinguishers during an emergency.
  4. Enhanced Aesthetics: Recessed and surface-mounted cabinets blend seamlessly with your building’s design, maintaining a clean and professional appearance.

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Cabinets

Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your needs is essential. Here are the different types of extinguishers available:

Class ABC Fire Extinguishers

These versatile extinguishers are suitable for fighting fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.

Class BC Fire Extinguishers

Ideal for fires involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment.

Class CO2 Fire Extinguishers

These extinguishers are effective against fires involving electrical equipment and flammable liquids.

Class K Fire Extinguishers

Specifically designed for kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats.

Fire Extinguisher Cabinets

Available in various styles, including recessed and surface-mounted options, these cabinets ensure your extinguishers are protected and easily accessible.

Fire Equipment Service: Keeping Your Safety Gear in Top Condition

Regular checks to ensure all equipment is in good working order and compliant with safety regulations, such as those set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Professional service includes:

  • Inspection: Regular checks to ensure all equipment is in good working order and compliant with safety regulations.
  • Maintenance: Necessary repairs and replacements to keep your fire safety equipment in optimal condition.
  • Training: Educating your staff on the proper use of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.

Benefits of Professional Fire Equipment Service

  1. Peace of Mind: Knowing your fire safety equipment is regularly inspected and maintained by professionals.
  2. Enhanced Safety: Well-maintained equipment is more likely to perform correctly during an emergency.
  3. Cost Savings: Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring your equipment meets all relevant fire safety standards, including those set by the national and local fire codes.

Sign Up for Fire Safety Training

Proper training on how to use fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment is crucial for ensuring a swift and effective response during an emergency. We offer comprehensive training sessions to equip you and your staff with the knowledge and skills needed to handle fire emergencies confidently.

Why Training is Essential

  • Increased Confidence: Trained individuals are more likely to respond effectively in a fire emergency.
  • Better Outcomes: Proper use of fire extinguishers can prevent small fires from growing into large, uncontrollable blazes.
  • Legal Compliance: Many local regulations require fire safety training for employees.

How to Choose the Right Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet

When selecting fire extinguishers and cabinets for your facility, consider the following:

  1. Type of Fire Hazards: Identify the types of fire hazards present in your environment to choose the appropriate extinguisher.
  2. Accessibility: Ensure cabinets are installed in easily accessible locations.
  3. Compliance: Verify that your selections comply with local fire safety regulations.
  4. Aesthetics: Choose cabinets that complement your building’s design.

Products We Offer

We provide a wide range of fire safety products to meet your needs:

Conclusion

Ensure your fire safety equipment is up to the standards set by your local and national authorities, and your staff is properly trained. Equipping your facility with the right fire extinguisher and cabinet solution is a critical step in safeguarding lives and property. Regular fire equipment service and proper training further enhance your preparedness for any fire emergency.

Call to Action

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your fire safety equipment is up to standard and your staff is properly trained. Contact us today at info@firstaidsupplystores.com or call (866) 706 – 7283 to schedule your fire equipment service and sign up for our comprehensive fire safety training program. Protect your premises, comply with regulations, and gain peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for any fire emergency.

By following these guidelines and investing in the right fire safety solutions, you can create a safer environment for everyone.

FAQs about Fire Extinguisher and Cabinet Solutions

Why is it important to have fire extinguisher cabinets?

Fire extinguisher cabinets protect the extinguishers from damage, ensure they are easily accessible during emergencies, and help comply with fire safety regulations.

What types of fire extinguishers are available?

We offer a range of fire extinguishers including Class ABC, Class BC, Class CO2, and Class K extinguishers, each designed to combat specific types of fires.

How often should fire equipment service be conducted?

Fire equipment should be inspected and serviced at least once a year to ensure it is in proper working condition and complies with safety regulations.

What are the benefits of professional fire equipment service?

Professional fire equipment service ensures your equipment is maintained, reducing the risk of failure during an emergency, and helps you comply with legal requirements.

How do I choose the right fire extinguisher for my facility?

Identify the types of fire hazards in your environment and select an extinguisher that is rated for those specific hazards. Consulting with a fire safety professional can also help you make the right choice.

Can I install fire extinguisher cabinets myself?

While it is possible to install fire extinguisher cabinets yourself, it is recommended to have a professional install them to ensure they are properly secured and compliant with safety standards.

What is included in fire safety training?

Fire safety training typically includes instructions on the proper use of fire extinguishers, understanding different types of fires, and how to respond effectively during a fire emergency.

How do I maintain compliance with fire safety regulations?

Regularly service your fire equipment, ensure all fire extinguishers are properly housed in cabinets, conduct routine inspections, and provide fire safety training for your staff in compliance with the regulations.

What are the signs that a fire extinguisher needs servicing?

Signs include a broken seal, low pressure, visible damage, or if the extinguisher has been used. Regular inspections can help identify these issues before they become serious.

How can I sign up for fire safety training?

You can sign up for fire safety training by contacting us at info@fast-rescue.com or calling (866) 706 – 7283. Our training programs are designed to equip you and your staff with essential fire safety skills compliant with the standards.


Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace

Posted on

Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace

Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace

Slips, trips, and falls are one of the most common reasons for experiencing an injury at work. These injuries can include sprains, fractures, lacerations, internal bleeding, concussions, and even fatalities. Therefore, it is critical that these types of hazards are acknowledged and prevented within the workplace.

  • Slips…occur in locations where there is not enough traction or grip between the footwear and the surface being walked on.
  • Trips…happen when the foot collides or strikes with an object which causes someone to lose their balance.
  • Falls…take place either from the same level or elevated. Elevated falls are more severe, whereas same-level falls happen more frequently and are generally caused by slips or trips.

There are a variety of situations within the workplace that can cause slips, trips, and falls, which may include the following:

  • Wet, greasy, or freshly polished floors
  • Loose electrical cords or cables
  • Damaged, irregular, or uneven flooring and steps
  • Inadequate or poor lighting
  • Open desk or file cabinet drawers
  • Weather conditions such as ice, rain, frost, or snow

How can employees prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace?

  • Execute proper housekeeping duties
  • Contain and clean up spills immediately
  • Participate in health and safety initiatives
  • Be observant of walkways, hallways, and other areas within the workplace that may become cluttered or impacted

As a manager and/or employer, it is a part of your roles and responsibilities to create a safer working environment for you and your employees. Use the following guidelines to avoid work injuries due to slips, trips, or falls:

  1. Provide proper training to employees
  2. Have a company policy in place outlining the rules for housekeeping
  3. Implement and maintain proper lighting
  4. Reduce wet or slippery surfaces
  5. Ensure employees are wearing proper footwear

Looking for an expert Health and Safety Consultant? Let us help you reduce the risk of accidents by providing a complete solution. Contact us now!

slips-trips-and-falls-in-the-workplace


Why Is Personal Safety Important?

Posted on

Why Is Personal Safety Important?

Why Is Personal Safety Important

Personal safety goes beyond following the employer’s safety program. It also means having a general awareness and prevention of possible harmful situations, whether off or on the clock!

Giving proper attention to personal safety concerns can improve employee morale and reduce absences. When employees feel supported, workplaces often see an increase in productivity, creativity, and performance. A strong sense of awareness of risks and an increased knowledge of personal safety procedures can mean less employees are being injured.

TIPS ON PERSONAL SAFETY:

AT WORK

  • Wear proper protective equipment and use the appropriate tools.
  • Maintain good posture and recognize overexertion or awkward positioning.
  • Report any unsafe conditions to a manager or supervisor.
  • Follow and stay up to date on procedures and protocols.
  • Keep a clean and well-organized workstation.
  • Be an active participant in all safety training.

Why Is Personal Safety Important At Work 01

WHILE TRAVELLING

  • Be alert and stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be returning.
  • Try to stick to well-lit areas and don’t take shortcuts. Plan your route in advance.
  • Travel with confidence and avoid talking to strangers.
  • If something doesn’t feel right – trust your instincts. Leave immediately and contact the authorities.
  • Utilize the buddy system when applicable.

Why Is Personal Safety Important While Travelling 02

AT HOME

  • Install a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide detector. Test each annually.
  • Keep an emergency kit and have an emergency response plan.
  • Lock your door and, if possible, install a security system.
  • Hide valuables in a secure space out of eyesight.
  • Keep floors, aisles, and walkways dry and clear of miscellaneous items.
  • Be cautious when speaking to someone on the phone if you cannot confirm their identity. They could be a fraudster.

Why Is Personal Safety Important at home 03

Focusing on personal safety shouldn’t stop you from doing things you enjoy or living a normal life; it’s about being aware and taking the appropriate steps to stay safe.

Looking for an expert Health and Safety Consultant? Let us help you reduce the risk of accidents by providing a complete solution. Contact us now!


What can hurt me?

Posted on

What can hurt me?

What can hurt me

No one goes to work expecting to get hurt, but it’s the “it won’t happen to me” mentality that usually triggers accidents and injuries. It’s not uncommon for employees, supervisors, managers, or owners to become so comfortable and complacent in their day-to-day operations at work that they forget to ask themselves, “What can hurt me?” when entering the workplace. Asking this can prompt you to take the extra few minutes to evaluate the hazards of a work task, which could potentially save your life!

Below is a list of items that are occasionally overlooked or forgotten in the workplace and can potentially lead to serious harm:

MACHINE GUARDING

If machine guards are improperly installed, outdated, or need to be replaced, it could seriously injure the machine operator and/or other employees through physical contact, debris, dust, and even noise.

PINCH POINTS

Pinch points can be between two moving parts, or between a moving and stationary part, of an object or machine, such as conveyors, gears, loaders, compactors, and even desk drawers and cabinets. Crush injuries from pinch points can result in cuts, bruises, broken bones, and even amputations.

ACCIDENTAL START-UP OF EQUIPMENT

Injuries resulting from the failure to properly lockout/tagout a piece of broken equipment may result in electrocution, burns, crushing, cutting, lacerating, amputating, or fracturing body parts, and others. Check your SOP/SWP for lockout procedures.

SPILLS

Whether a hazardous substance, or not, spills can cause slips, trip, or falls or health hazards in the workplace. Ignoring or not following proper spill response procedures may lead to serious consequences.

RACKING AND STORAGE

Improper storage or racking can include heavy items on top shelves, overhanging products, damaged shelving, and racks holding more than their maximum capacity.

ELECTRICAL

Damaged extension cords, forgetting PPE, working on live circuits, improper grounding, or skipping lockout/tagout procedures can cause electrical shock or property damage due to fire.

NOISE

Noise in the workplace can cause permanent damage to your hearing. It can happen progressively or be caused immediately by exposure to peak sounds. If employees have to raise their voices to be heard from even just a yard away, it’s a good indication that the noise is reaching a harmful level and PPE is needed.

These common hazards pose a threat to you and other employees. Don’t forget – when walking into the workplace, ask yourself, “What can hurt me?”


F.A.S.T Rescue offers Accredited Fire Safety Program

Posted on

F.A.S.T Rescue offers Accredited Fire Safety Program

F.A.S.T Rescue offers Accredited Fire Safety Program

Fire Safety Plan

F.A.S.T. Rescue is now offering an Accredited Online Fire Safety Online Certification program!  This course is designed to help protect the public and responding firefighters.  Most building owners in Ontario is required to have a Fire Safety Plan, approved and implemented at their building.  All “Supervisory” staff of that building has to be trained on how to implement the Fire Safety Plan, and understand their own roles and responsibilities under that plan – before being given any responsibilities at the building.  The training in this program allows everyone to fully understand their responsibilities included in section 2.8 of the Ontario Fire Code.

When a building fire occurs, if you stick to the fire safety plan, firefighters who arrive on the scene will have easy access to the building, and safely be able to put out the fire. When purchasing the course, you can select 1 course out of the 3 available:

For commercial buildings this course covers: 

  • Understand emergency fire, evacuation, defend in place, and recovery considerations
  • Understand and navigate commercial building safety plan
  • Review best practices in fire service arrival
  • Learn maintenance requirements of building life systems in Ontario

For residential buildings this course covers:

  • Understand emergency fire, evacuation, defend in place, and recovery considerations
  • Understand and navigate residential building fire safety plan
  • Review best practices in fire service arrival
  • Learn maintenance requirements of building life systems in Ontario

For security guards this course covers:

  • Understand emergency fire, evacuation, defend in place, and recovery considerations
  • Understand and navigate building safety plan in Ontario
  • Review best practices in fire service arrival
  • Understand maintenance requirements of building life systems in Ontario

With thousands of firefighters across Ontario risking their lives for public safety every day, completing the online or in-person training for residential or commercial buildings is a small but legally required step that every responsible property owner, property management team, and employer must complete.




SafeBuildings

Posted on

SafeBuildings

Special Webinar Invitation

Making Safety A Way Of Life!

Manage your building safely and easily!

Join us for a 1 hour complimentary webinar on SafeBuildings,
our mobile app for recording your building’s code compliance

  • Replace missing or lost pens and clipboards – and digitally track your compliance.
  • Take photographs during inspections – digitally date and time stamped.
  • Track both your occupational health and safety and fire code requirements.
  • Never miss an inspection again with instant reminders and escalations
  • Roll out safety procedures via secure, mobile app – with instantly updates when the code change.
  • Complete your first aid kit and AED checks online.
  • Know the current compliance status…to the second!

SafeBuildings allows you to digitally track your code compliance in REAL TIME!

If you would like to attend this session, please click here and fill out the Registration Form.

Date: July 9, 2020
Time: 12 pm to 1 pm EST
Cost: Complimentary to invited guests

Spaces are limited so please book early! 




COVID-19 Posters

Posted on

COVID-19 Posters

Limited Offer

Making Safety A Way Of Life!

COVID-19 Posters

Encourage physical distancing in your workplace!


Download English Posters


Download French Posters