Mark Stouph, Health & Safety Consultant at Jacksons gives some tips on keeping safe during the festive season in this week’s blog
Candles
Unattended candles can pose a big risk for fires, especially during holiday parties. Do not use candles in a workplace and, if you use them at home, keep them in a secure stand, where they can’t be bumped, and at least 1 foot of space on all sides.
Christmas Trees
Whether you have a real tree or an artificial tree, make sure it is secure and will not fall over. Make sure it does not obstruct exit routes or pose other risks. When decorating the tree try to do so without using ladders – keep your feet on the ground. If you do have to use a ladder, make sure it is inspected before use and supported.
Christmas lights
Check how old your Christmas lights are and if they are in good condition. The newer the light, the higher the safety standard will be. Like candles make sure that they are off when you leave them unattended and make sure the last person to leave the office checks that all the lights are switched off. When putting up your fairy lights make sure you check them for any potential hazards. Check the wires for fraying, any bare spots in the wire and kinks in the line.
Decorations
Plan putting decorations up and how to do it safely. If you need to use a ladder, make sure you inspect it before use and get someone to hold it to keep it steady. Do not put decorations near heaters or flames and make sure they do not interfere with smoke detectors or other alarm systems.
Socialising
Christmas provides more opportunities to socialise especially at work. Try to plan social events and consider how you will get home afterwards. If you are having a drink do not overindulge and do not drive home, take a taxi or public transport.
Weather
The weather can change quickly and impact on travel, so monitor local weather forecasts and consider how it may impact on your plans. Consider alternative transport plans if your intended route or mode of transport are not available due to weather disruption. When venturing out wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Make sure you have arrangements in place to salt access routes into work. Work entrances should have mats to reduce the risk of slips in wet weather.
Keeping Warm
Plugging in too many high-voltage items in one outlet or extension cord could spark a fire. And never plug your space heaters into an extension cord, as the voltage is too high. Only use heaters which are designed and manufactured for that purpose, do not use ‘hacks’ which you may see on social media such as terracotta pots which have caused fires.
Driving
If you need to drive for work, ensure that you allow plenty of time for your journey as the roads may be busier than normal at this time of year. Weather may make driving conditions more challenging so make sure your car is maintained and you have warm clothing in the car if you break down. Ensure that your mobile phone is fully charged before setting off in case you need to call for assistance should you break down. If you are going to drink alcohol, do not drive!
No rush
At this time of year, we all have a lot to organise and arrange which often results in us rushing from one job to the next. This can result in minor accidents and injuries which can place the NHS under unnecessary strain. Don’t rush, take your time!
Lone working
With many offices closed over the Christmas period, make sure you have adequate arrangements in place to support any staff who may need to work. If staff are working alone during the festive period, make sure you have procedures in place to keep them safe and to check on their wellbeing regularly.
Food Safety
Food poisoning is no joke especially at Christmas so make sure that food is prepared and stored appropriately. If food is provided at work, make sure it is stored at the correct temperature. After office parties clear any left-over food and ensure it is not left on the premises over the holidays.
Legionella
If your workplace is going to be unoccupied over the Christmas period, consider any safety precautions that may be required to prevent the build up of legionella in the water system. Make sure taps are flushed before staff return in January and that your legionella management plan is followed.
Finally, have a great Christmas and New Year!
