Guides & Toolkits

18 150-008-01-IADO © 2014, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca tailgate talks – general HoUsekeePing in tHe workPlace Maintain light fixtures All buildings and yards should be adequately lit. Dirty light fixtures reduce light levels. Light fixtures in storage areas containing combustible materials should be protected against breaking (i.e. explosion proof fixtures). Maintain lighting evenly, since shadows mixed with light spots inside animal handling facilities will increase the animal's fear and tension. Aisles and stairways Keep aisles and stairways clearly marked and clear of objects that can cause trips and falls. Stairways and aisles also require adequate lighting. Aisles should be wide enough to accommodate people and vehicles comfortably and safely. Warning signs and mirrors can improve sight lines at blind corners. Properly arranged aisles encourage people to use them so that they do not take "shortcuts" or "bottleneck" storage. Spill control The best way to control spills is to stop them before they happen. Regularly cleaning and maintaining machines and equipment is one way to do this. Another is to use drip pans and guards where spills might occur. If a spill occurs, follow cleanup procedures as indicated on the Material Safety Data Sheet. Clean spills immediately. Absorbent material is useful for wiping up greasy, oily or other liquid spills. Used absorbents must be disposed of properly and safely. Tools and equipment Keep tools neat and orderly, whether in the tool room, on the rack, in the yard, or on the bench. Return tools promptly after use reducing the chance of them being misplaced or lost. Workers should regularly inspect, clean and repair all tools and take any damaged or worn tools out of service. Maintenance A good maintenance program includes inspection, maintenance, upkeep and repair of tools, equipment, machines and processes. Maintenance involves keeping buildings, equipment and machinery in safe efficient working order and in good repair. This includes maintaining sanitary facilities, regularly painting and cleaning walls, maintaining windows, damaged doors, defective plumbing and broken surfaces. wsps.ca

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