Health and Safety Essentials

The following brief guide is for quick reference; however, full details are in Handcrafted's Health and Safety Policy. Please refer to the original policy for full guidance and you should speak to your line manager or the Health and Safety Coordinator (Dan Northover) when in doubt about what to do.

You are expected to familiarise yourself with the Health and Safety Policy for Handcrafted as well as any specific policies or guidelines in place at your working location. The following is a quick guide for reference. Please refer to the policy and/or ask a colleague for help if you are not sure what to do.

Your Responsibilities:

• Follow Safety Procedures: Adhere to all health and safety guidelines provided by Handcrafted.
• Stay Informed: Make sure you understand the safety information and training provided during your induction.
• Report Hazards: Immediately report any hazards, accidents, or unsafe conditions to your supervisor.
• Use Equipment Safely: Always use tools and equipment as instructed, and ensure they are in safe working condition.
• Take Care: Be responsible for your own safety and the safety of others around you.
• Keep Risk Assessments Updated: At the earliest opportunity make sure any new risks are documented and communicate them to colleagues that may be affected.

Health and Safety Areas:

General Safety:

• Ensure all work activities are conducted safely.
• Regularly check and maintain safe working conditions.
• Consult with supervisors if unsure about any health and safety matter.

Building Safety:

• Keep aisles and gangways clear.
• Report any damage to buildings or equipment.
• Use appropriate equipment, such as ladders, for tasks that involve height.

Good Housekeeping:

• Keep work areas tidy and free from obstructions.
• Follow the designated smoking areas and maintain proper ventilation.
• Ensure adequate lighting and noise control in the workplace.

Fire Safety:

• Familiarise yourself with fire exits, alarms, and assembly points.
• Participate in fire drills and follow evacuation procedures.
• Do not block fire exits or tamper with fire safety equipment.

First Aid and Accident Reporting:

• Know the location of first aid kits and the designated first aiders.
• Report all accidents or near misses immediately.
• Record incidents in the Accident Book.

Handling Hazardous Substances (COSHH):

• Avoid using hazardous substances if possible.
• Follow safety instructions and use protective equipment when handling such materials.
• Report any exposure to hazardous substances to your supervisor.

Manual Handling:

• Avoid lifting heavy loads alone; seek assistance or use mechanical aids.
• Follow proper lifting techniques to prevent injury.
• Stop immediately and report any strain or injury during lifting.

Stress Management:

• Communicate any work-related stress to your supervisor.
• Participate in creating a supportive work environment.
• Respect the workload and well-being of your colleagues.

Personal Safety:

• Stay calm and avoid escalating situations if faced with aggression.
• Keep yourself safe by maintaining distance and having an escape route.
• Report any incidents of aggression or harassment to management.