Emergency responders, police officers, firefighters, construction crews, and a variety of other personnel operate in jobs with a number of risks involved. Part of the risk relates to working in areas where cars frequently travel, such as a busy highway or highway. In the United States, there are 47,000 motor vehicle-related deaths each year, and it is one of the most common causes of death in the workplace.
Employees can reduce the risk of injury on and off the job with the right training and experience in addition to wearing the appropriate safety equipment.
Get the Right Training and Experience
Studies seem to show that 70 percent of work-related accidents occur within the first three years of employment. Younger people, ages 15 to 24 and more often men, seem to have more accidents than older people. There are various factors that can lead to an accident or death, including drugs, alcohol, stress and fatigue.
However, receiving the appropriate training and working hard to gain as much experience as possible can help reduce the risk of an accident. Take advantage of any training your workplace offers regarding your position, as well as any opportunities to gather experience and knowledge on how to do your job better and safer.
Invest in the Right Safety Equipment
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has been developed guidelines for high-visibility clothing. The type of safety equipment required depends on the type of work being done. Hearing protection is important in noisy areas, such as working with any machine.
Eye protection and gloves are also important when working with machines. Anyone working near a moving car should add reflective clothing to their list of safety equipment.
High-visibility clothing contains reflective strips that make the individual easier to see while on the road, reducing the risk of being hit by drivers who may not see the person. There are different types of reflective gear available depending on the speed of the cars moving around you.
Keep Safety in Mind
Whether you’re working with large machinery or on the road next to a fast-moving vehicle, training, experience and the right safety equipment all work to make you safer on the job. It’s important for everyone to go home in one piece at the end of the day, so do your part to be educated and stay safe both on and off the job.
Successful Workplace Safety Program
Anytime a person is working in an environment where it is important to be clearly visible, such as beside a busy highway, it is very important that the person has proper safety clothing such as a high-visibility vest.
High-visibility clothing is usually made from 100 percent polyester and includes neon yellow and orange colors. There may also be reflective strips located in strategic locations on the clothing, such as down the torso and along the sleeves.
