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Workplace Safety: Know the Signs

posted by TrueNorth Risk Management on Wednesday, October 4, 2017

This past Spring, former Governor Terry Branstad proclaimed this first week of October as Construction Week and current Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has also voiced her support and commitment by recording a personal message. The purpose of Construction Week is to promote community awareness of the construction industry as a safe, exciting and rewarding career option.

Are you interested in learning more about the industry and its opportunities?  Visit our partners at www.buildiowa.org!

Important hazard reminders

Safety signs are all around your work environment and serve as important hazard reminders. Here's the low-down on the most common safety signs: 

Danger Signs:

• Signs are typically red, black, and white and often include brief danger descriptions.
• Danger signs are only used when immediate hazards exist.
• These signs are common in high-voltage areas and where automatic start-up equipment is used. 

Warning Signs: 

• Signs are typically orange with black text and/or symbols.
• These signs warn against hazards that are not threatening, such as forklift traffic.

Caution Signs: 

• Signs are yellow with a b lack panel on the top and the word "Caution" on the panel. The bottom of the sign is used for additional safety information.
• Used to caution against unsafe work practices or to warn against potential hazards.

Evacuation Tips

Prepare now

There may come a time in your workday when you must evacuate because of an emergency. Before an emergency situation, it's best to prepare ahead of time so you can act fast. Here's how: 

• Read the emergency evacuation plan thoroughly and ask questions concerning protocol that you do not understand.
• Know the pathway to at least two exits in every room or area in your workplace. 
• Recognize the sound or signal of fire and evacuation alarms.
• Know who to contact in an emergency.
• Familiarize yourself with the pathway between your workspace and the exit so you can escape in the dark, if necessary.
• Report any damaged or malfunctioning safety systems to your supervisor immediately upon discovery. 

In the event of an evacuation, leave as quickly as possible. Go directly to the nearest exit, if it's not blocked by fire. Listen carefully for more instructions from your supervisor and report to the designated meeting location outlined in our emergency evacuation plan. 

Remain Competitive, Work with a Construction Specialist

Now more than ever, the challenge facing contractors extends far beyond the job site. For those wanting to remain competitive in the industry, they're required to have the expertise, operations, and systems to effectively mitigate many types of risk. Click on the button below to learn more about TrueNorth's Construction Specialty Group. 

  Visit TrueNorth's CSG Page  

Protection, no matter where you are.

Get your coverage through TrueNorth so you can rest assured that the things and people you love are protected and accounted for. Call us at 319-364-5193, and a personal insurance agent will gladly look over your plan.  Find out more about our personal solutions and obtain a quote for home and auto insurance at www.iTrueNorth.com.