SAFETY PROGRAMMES

INTEGRATING QUALITY & SAFETY PROGRAMMES

Field personnel must combine good safety and quality practices into their work, however most construction companies mange quality and safety as two independent programs. Integration quality and safety into a single programs can streamline operation

And create synergies that improve results,

From a management and control perspective, there are similarities between quality and safety programs. Both programs ensure workis done the right way from their viewpoint. Each program has a system of performance standards, verifications, and corrective action. There is an opportunity to capitalize on these similarities.

“we believe in producing a quality product and producing it safely”, “we have safety system that has earned national recognition”.

Adjustments are necessary to create a single system that serves both quality and safety. Start by specifying materials, Equipment work procedures, and job rules that lead ton quality and safety. Related training can present employees with the right way to work that addresses both quality and safety.

Quality inspection procedures can be expended to encompass safety concerns. Existing Inspection procedures can be adjusted totrack and record the presence of trained personnel, the use of safety equipment , compliance with worksite rules, and work conditions.

As inspections uncover safety problem areas, preventing recurrence draws from the strength of the quality improvement processes.First, Quality methods are used to uncover root causes and plan changes that prevent recurrence of the issue. The could involve changing equipment, materials, constructionmethods, work rules, or company policy.

Regular toolbox talks can communication changes to field personnel. “we have toolbox talks every week with every crew”. ” oursafety and quality topics reinforce the safety procedures and construction details. When hotspots come up they go on the list and we talk about them too’’.

When quality and safety are combined management and employees can identify with a much simpler plan. For management there is only one system to manage that fully integration quality and safety into the business operation of the company and continuously improves performance. For employees, It is easier to work within a management framework that present a single message about the right way and safety Programs.