Health and Safety Training Newsletter:

February 2022

Woodshed safety & LEV system

Did you know that wood dust can be hazardous?

Wood dust can actually cause asthma and dermatitis (itchy / dry / blistered skin) and can be incredibly irritating to the eyes, nose and throat. If in presence of an ignition source and a fuel, wood dust can also become a fire and even an explosion risk. So when using the wood shed, be sure to follow our advice in order to protect yourself from any hazards. Click the image on the left to expand.

What should I do if I notice an issue with the LEV system?

The LEV system is inspected on an annual basis and will be due its next inspection next month.

Before using the system ensure that the gauge is showing that the pressure is within the ‘normal operating range’. Also make sure that the button for the fan is switched on before turning on the saw. There is also an emergency button which will completely shut the system down if required.

If you notice a decrease in power when using the system, please inform Dave Wiggins. This may mean that the system requires cleaning out.

To find out more about controlling the risk of wood dust, visit the HSE website by clicking the button below.

 

PPE & RPE

It is incredibly important to always remember to wear your PPE (personal protective equipment) and RPE (respiratory protective equipment). This equipment is in place to protect your health and should be stored and well maintained in a good condition.

If you require any replacement PPE / RPE please see the stores or senior management.

 
 

Things to look for in your PPE / RPE

  • Do you have all of the correct PPE for the job that you are about to carry out?

  • Is the item damaged?

  • Does the equipment fit you properly? This is essential when it comes to RPE.

  • Does parts of the equipment need regularly replacing? Eg: filters.

  • Is the equipment clean and well maintained? Equipment will last significantly longer if well maintained and stored in a clean, dry place.

  • Is the item stored somewhere suitable? Ensure that your equipment is somewhere safe where it cannot be damaged when not in use.

 

RPE checklist: How to wear your respirator correctly

Click the image below to expand and read.

 
 

COVID-19 company update

Memo: Updates to guidance on 24th February 2022

Following recent government guidance on 24.02.2022, it is no longer a legal requirement to self isolate if you receive a positive COVID-19 test result. This includes both lateral flow and PCR test results.

We will however, like to continue with our weekly testing programme for the next couple of months for peace of mind. We feel that this is a sensible decision because if we can identify a positive case within the workplace, we can do our very best to prevent it from spreading to other members of staff. Please remember to submit your test result on the general work chat WhatsApp group before 8am each Monday morning.

We ask that if you do unfortunately contract COVID-19, that you do your upmost to social distance from other staff members and where not possible, please wear a face covering. Although milder than previous strains, you can still fall unwell with with COVID-19, so we would like to do our best to ensure that everyone and their families remains safe and well.

Lateral flow tests are still available to order for free from the government website. You can order a pack by clicking here. Currently, you are able to order one pack, which includes seven tests, every three days.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to come and speak to us.

Lastly, we would like to say thank you for all of your continued support as this has enabled us to all continue working throughout these uncertain times.

- Jess & Lee

 

Fire marshal training

Fire marshall training will take place for those involved on Thursday 3rd March. Please see all relevant information required below.

Training booked for: SCW fire marshals - Dave Wiggins, Craig Rapley and Lawrence Mackenzie

Date: Thursday 3rd March 2022

Time: 09:30 start

Location: Thameside Fire Protection, Unit 4, Sovereign Park, Cranes Farm Road, Basildon, SS14 3JD

Instructor: Jake Bristow

If you have any questions about the training, please speak to Dave Wiggins.

If you have any questions regarding our fire policy or what to do in the event of a fire, please speak to one of the fire marshals.

 

February: Top pick

From this month, we will be choosing a recent conversion to feature as our top pick in the staff newsletter.

This vehicle will be showcased in our internal (and sales!) newsletter and will give everyone an insight into the finished vehicle and what it will be getting up to. This month, we’ve picked something very different, the Barber Bus!

We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone evolved in the build, the customer was incredibly happy with the vehicle and couldn’t wait to get it home to give his daughter the first ever trim in the bus! Take a look at the video below to see what it looked like when finished.

 If you have any questions relating to the information in this months newsletter, please speak to senior management.

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