About It

So, you know talking about safety is important. But do you know why?  Speaking up, starting the conversation and asking questions in the workplace can protect you from becoming a statistic.

Retail

TIP #1: Use safe lifting habits to prevent strains and sprains from tasks like stocking shelves or moving lines of grocery carts.

TIP #2: Wear steel-toed boots in case heavy boxes or pallets fall on your feet.

TIP #3: Slippery floors can lead to slips and falls, so clean ‘em up.

Retail Stats in NS:

  • In 2009, there were 767 workers under the age of 25 injured in the retail industry.
  • Grocery clerks and shelf stockers were most likely to be hurt.

Food & Beverage

TIP #1: Hot stuff. Be careful around ovens and other hot things, like popcorn makers or fat from fryers.

TIP #2: Sharp stuff. Be careful with knives and broken glass. Don’t rush in food prep, even if you feel pressured to. No one wants a finger salad.

TIP #3: Slippery stuff. Messy means slippery, especially with all that grease and cooking oil.

Food and Beverage Stats in NS:

  • In 2009, there were 636 workers under the age of 25 injured in the food and beverage industry.
  • Food service counter attendants and food preparers were most likely to be hurt.

Manufacturing

TIP #1: Protect your fingers. Make sure you’re properly trained and machines have all the appropriate guards in place.

TIP #2: Lift safely. Backs were second only to fingers in manufacturing injuries.

TIP #3: Don’t take shortcuts to get the job done quickly. Get it done safely.

Manufacturing Stats in NS:

  • In 2009, there were 424 workers under the age of 25 injured in the manufacturing industry.
  • Other trades helpers and laborers were most likely to be hurt.

Construction

TIP #1: Building materials can be heavy. Lift safely. Knees bent. Back straight.

TIP #2: Make sure fall protection is in place when you’re working above three metres. There are rules about that.

TIP #3: Before you use any equipment, be properly trained on it. Do not do it “just this once.”

Construction Stats in NS:

  • In 2009, there were 388 workers under the age of 25 injured in the construction industry.
  • Construction trades helpers and laborers were most likely to be hurt.