Safe Initiative

Welcome to February (where did January go?) – and welcome to the hottest month of the year in WA. So, if you haven’t already, make sure you read our previous entries on heat safety and how to stay safe in the heat that is coming over the next few weeks (and arguably is already here).

This week, we want to talk about Safe Initiative. We know that as a young apprentice – or a slightly older one – you probably want to show initiative, and display that you’ve got a bit of get-up-and-go. And there’s nothing wrong with that. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it safely.

What do we mean by safely? Well, we want all our apprentices to avoid shocks, damage, injury, and anything else on site which could be detrimental to yourself. So whilst taking initiative is a great thing – make sure you’re thinking before you act on anything.

Remember, if you're under direct supervision, your tradesperson MUST be nearby (that means within earshot and eyesight) when you’re performing any tasks – and you must only do the tasks you’re asked to perform and are safe and legal for you to attempt whats the issue here?. For example, if your tradesperson asks you to isolate power supply, and then proceeds to leave the room – stop what you are doing, and do not continue until they are back in the room.

If you are going to take the initiative to get stuck into something – ask your Tradesperson the question first issue here?. “I’d like to have a crack at an isolation – can you observe whilst I do?”

Also, always make sure you test. Always test with a tested tester. And NEVER, under any circumstances, do something you feel is unsafe. If that little voice in the back of your head is telling you something is dangerous – it probably is. You are well within your rights to not do a task you feel is unsafe, or makes you feel unsafe on site.

If you need a refresher on correct procedure on isolations – feel free to have a look at this safety alert we sent out recently

And, if you want to review the Safe Work Guidelines for Apprentices, head here.

Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility – and taking the initiative in work is a great thing to do – so long as you’re safe and smart about it.