Tag Archives: questions

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

WAYS TO TALK TO YOUR BOSS

Yesterday, we offered some advice to those applying for jobs, and ideas for new hires.  Our main focus was to help them question what the company expects of them and if there are hazards associated with their job duties.  We’ve all had to start with a  first job, and it is overwhelming to learn each facet of the things you will be doing, and getting to know all of your coworkers.  The most important part of getting off on the right foot is to know when and how to talk to your boss.  This may not only include the top executive of the company, but your supervisor as well. 

Let’s begin with when to talk to your boss……..

  • You feel that you need someone to watch you do the job and make sure you are doing it right.
  • You know there is a hazard.
  • You need more training and information.
  • You feel there is something in the work that could endanger you or a coworker.
  • You have an idea on how to make the work safer.
  • There is any type of question about your job.
  • Anytime you feel there has been a change to a term or condition of your working arrangement. 
  • Wait until he or she is not in a bad mood!

How to talk to your boss…………

  • Be polite and respectful.
  • Write down your concerns so your boss may review it later. 
  • Don’t blame individuals.
  • Avoid confrontational words and behavior.
  • Keep a positive attitude and speak out of concern for your safety and others.
  • Watch your body language.
  • Make a suggestion to solve the problem if you can.
  • State your issue or what you would like, clearly and concisely.
  • Be positive about both your job and the future of the company. 

When asked about the things that most executives and supervisors appreciate about their employees, they answered:  those with positive attitudes, that are ready to help coworkers, are prepared by anticipating things that will need to be done in order to successfully complete the project, and have the initiative to do things without being told.  A smart worker knows how to save the company time and money.  A hard worker may stay up all night to complete a project; a smart worker finds a way to do it in half the time, or delegates the assignment in order to finish successfully.  It takes hard workers and smart workers, (many are both), to make a company productive. 

If you feel that you have been informed of the hazards or risks associated with the job duties you will be performing, remember that you should be equipped with the proper personal protective equipment, PPE, and that it fits and protects you.  If it doesn’t fit, let your supervisor know.  It won’t protect you if you don’t wear it, whether it’s safety glasses, gloves, coveralls, or a hardhat.  Follow the safety rules and policies and procedures that your company has posted.  Get the right training and work safely. 

If you asked questions about health or safety concerns, or if you don’t have the health and safety training you need, tell your supervisor immediately.  If he or she cannot or does not solve the problem, it is alright to say “no” to unsafe work.  You have the right to refuse work that you think is unsafe; this is the law.  Until the issue is resolved, you will be kept from the unsafe work.  A process that has been set out in Occupational Safety and Health Act will be followed.  This is fully explained on the OSHA website in the U.S., or in Canada, you can contact your Ministry of Labour. 

Sources: WorkSmart Ontario, OSHA

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

QUESTIONS NEW HIRES SHOULD ASK

The job market is very competitive right now and many folks are so happy to be granted an interview that they forget to ask questions that apply to their own wellbeing and safety in the job they are applying for.  During the interview, we are usually too nervous to think about many of the things that we are going to be expected to do.  Try to use the interview as an opportunity to see if you feel that this is the right place for you, and if you will be comfortable working there. From WorkSmart Ontario, and the Ontario Ministry of Labour, here are some excellent questions for applicants and new hires.    Listen and pay attention to things that they describe during the interview.  When hired, pay special attention during orientation, and ask:

  • Will I receive safety training on the job?  When?  (Safety training should begin on the first day, not several days after you start).
  • If I am working with chemicals, will I get hazardous materials training before I start working with chemicals?
  • Does the employer provide the equipment and safety gear?  Will I get training on how to wear it properly and make sure it’s in good condition?
  • Will I be taught emergency procedures and first aid locations?
  • Where are the company safety rules?
  • Is my regular supervisor the one I should ask if I have other questions about the job?
  • Find out about specific hazards in the job and what steps have been taken to keep workers safe.

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Remember, there is no such thing as a dumb question, especially when you’re asking how to do a job that you’ve never done before.  ASK until you’re out of questions to ensure that you are totally clear on the task that needs to be done and how to do it.  Another important thing to remember: follow the rules.  Laws have been created to protect you,  and your employer provides you with workplace policies and procedures you must follow.  Do not fool around.  Horseplay at work may seem like fun for some people, but it can be extremely dangerous.  It’s against the law, too.  At work, the rules that are in place are to protect you and others from injury and potential death.

We will continue tomorrow with more ways on when and how you should talk to your boss.