Safety
Working safely is very important in the Department of Public Works. Everyday our workers are exposed to all kinds of hazards; hazards ranging from vehicles traveling through work zones, to repairs on roofs, and exposure to chemicals and even blood. For this reason it is important that we develop a strong and vibrant safety culture within our department. It must be a safety culture that includes each and every Public Works' employee.
Public Works Safety Goal:
It is the goal of Josephine County Public Works to be accident free. It is important that each and every employee work safely, and watch out for the safety of others so that we all will return to our families healthy and whole at the end of each and every work day. Every Public Works' employee is expected to help plan and implement any and all programs to build a safer work environment and foster a positive attitude toward safety. Each and every employee is expected to take the appropriate action to assure that all equipment is in safe operating condition, that all safety procedures and policies are followed, and that all personnel are working in a safe manner.
Safety and Health Awareness Recognition Program – SHARP:
In 2003 the Department began to work towards the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (ORE OSHA) SHARP certification. Over the past two years we have developed a process to identify and reduce exposure to hazards, to analyze accidents and near misses, to communicate and train employees in those areas identified by OR OSHA. We have increased employee participation in health and safety programs, created "real world" policies that accurately address the occupational health and safety concerns that are a routine part of the diverse work we do.
After a comprehensive consultation of our work site and by showing our commitment towards a safe workplace, we achieved "SHARP" in December of 2005.
SHARP is granted in 12 month increments and to continue with this program, employers must apply for renewal during the last quarter of the approval year. Our Department will continue to meet the goal of SHARP by finding and correcting hazards, developing and implemented effective Safety and Health Programs and foremost by providing a safety workplace.
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