12 Life Saving Behaviors

[Audio] Welcome to Emerson's 12 Life Savings Behaviors Training..

[Audio] When we say, "Think Safety," we mean that everyone at Emerson should always consider how we can do our jobs safely, whether we're in the office, on the factory floor, or at a customer site. This is especially true for the tasks that we do most regularly—aspects of our jobs that are so routine that we often do them without giving them our full attention. We can become accustomed to certain risks over time, and this familiarity can lead to diminished awareness even though the same amount of risk remains. ​.

[Audio] For example, every day most of us walk up and down stairs without thinking that we could be one slip and fall away from a serious injury, or worse. Forgetting to clean up a spill in the break room, leaving protective gear in your car, or using a foot to stop an elevator door from closing—these are seemingly small things that can have serious, lasting consequences. This is why thinking safety is so important. But how do we make it second nature? Participating in safety training programs is an essential way to educate ourselves about best practices and the unique risks that exist at our workplaces. Always opening presentations with a safety moment can help facilitate a dialogue about safety concerns and ways to reduce risks in hazardous situations and in everyday life. ​ Finally, being aware of our surroundings, fully understanding and communicating risks, a​nd always keeping safe​ty in the forefront of our minds can help us at Emerson protect our most valuable resource—our people.​​.

[Audio] In order to ensure the safes​t possible work environment at Emerson, it's crucial that we report all incidents—no matter how minor they might seem—to management right away. ​ Reporting all incidents, regardless of severity or outcome, is an important process in protecting our people and assets; it's how we identify potential hazards or gaps in safety policies, define root causes, and correct issues..

[Audio] An incident is any event that either did, or could, have a negative impact. Crucially, this includes near-misses, sometimes called near-hits. For example, just because you trip over an extension cord and catch yourself before you fall doesn't mean that the next person who encounters the cord won't get hurt. In this case, even if no one else sees the incident, you should report it as a near-miss so that the hazard can be properly identified and addressed. ​Employees might assume someone else has already reported an issue, or feel awkward or embarrassed, or worry that their supervisors will blame them for not being more careful (which is almost never the case), but it's crucial that we see near-misses as the best opportunities to improve safety. As a rule, if you're not sure whether something is safe, report it. Timeliness is also key when reporting safety incidents. The longer someone waits to report a problem, the more difficult it becomes to fix it. That's why we should report all incidents within 24 hours after they happen. It's essential that we communicate with each other openly and promptly whenever we have concerns, large or small. After all, safety can't wait when the health and wellbeing of our people are on the line.​.

[Audio] In today's nonstop work environment, it can be easy for us to slip into "autopilot," and think just because we haven't been hurt doing our jobs before, that we won't get hurt now or later. This is especially true when we're in a hurry or when we're carrying out tasks that we do all the time. ​ Unfortunately, those situations are also when we often find ourselves at the greatest risk of accidents. ​Taking the time to assess the risk of every job we do—no matter how small or routine—is one of the most fundamental behaviors we can put into practice to keep ourselves and our workplaces safe..

[Audio] Knowing when to carry out a risk assessment is just as important as knowing how to do it correctly. Any time equipment is changed or added to a process, for example, it is critical to conduct an Equipment Safety Review to document and address any safety, health, or environmental concerns. Handling chemicals is another job that should always follow a formal risk assessment. But there are other times when assessing risk is just as important, such as when we carry out tasks that seem simple but aren't routine. Moving a heavy box of paper from the supply closet to the copy machine is the kind of situation where a quick evaluation of what could go wrong might save someone from serious injury. In this case it may not be necessary to fill out a form, but taking a moment to consider any hazards can make a real difference. In short, the best way to put this behavior into practice is to always STOP, THINK, then ACT. Whether we're driving to work, moving equipment, cleaning up spills, or implementing new process​es, it's vital to remember that we're always one careless moment away from a safety incident. In order to control risk we must first stop and recognize it, think about it, and then take proper action​ to reduce the chance of a negative outcome. It's simply the smart, safe thing to do..

[Audio] As we progress through the 12 lifesaving behaviors that make Emerson a safer workplace—after we Think Safety, Report Incidents, and Assess Risk—it's time to Take Action. Essentially, this means choosing not to look the other way. It means addressing unsafe behaviors and conditions promptly and appropriately. Not only can we help protect each other from injuries and accidents by taking initiative, but we can also demonstrate safety leadership and reinforce safety as a core company value. In order for this to work, however, we must all be prepared to take action when the time comes..

[Audio] Taking action to solve a problem takes more time and effort than ignoring it, but safety cannot become engrained as a behavior without determination. One key to success in this area is the recognition by management of extra time spent to address safety hazards. Whenever members of our teams take action on a safety issue, we should remember to positively reward and commend them for doing so. A little encouragement can go a long way.​ Here's a challenge for you: Try to find one unsafe condition today and take action in a positive way to reduce or eliminate the hazard. This could be something as simple as fixing a tripping hazard or cleaning up a spill. Or you might find something potentially more serious, such as an electrical issue or machinery hazard that has the potential to cause serious harm. You may just prevent one of your coworkers from experiencing an injury, by simply taking a little action. In either case, it's important never to put yourself in danger to address any situation. Assessing the least risky course of action before you do anything is the best way to protect everyone involved. Another thing to keep in mind is that it may seem easier to identify and correct unsafe conditions yourself than it is to approach another person and coach them about risky behavior. If you feel comfortable talking to a person who may be working at risk, do it in a polite, positive manner. And, likewise, if you are approached by a person who identifies a risky behavior, then assume that they are looking out for your safety and thank them. Otherwise, when in doubt, bring the concern to a manager or supervisor. Never ignore the issue. The more comfortable we become with this approach, the stronger—and safer—our organization will become..

[Audio] Overexertion is a leading cause of unintentional injuries on the job. More people seek medical treatment for injuries sustained at work because they​ exceeded their abilities than are hurt in auto accidents every year. ​​​ ​That's why no Emerson employee should attempt to do a job that they aren't trained or physically able to do. If there's ever any doubt about an employee's capabilities, the safest thing is to intervene or ask for assistance rather than try to improvise and put people at risk. For example, if a customer or coworker asks you to operate a piece of machinery that you're not certified to use, it is your responsibility to involve a supervisor w​ho can find another employee who is certified. We should always be prepared to fall back on our training to help us define our personal limits. That's what training is for, after all..

[Audio] Physical limitations are equally important for us to keep in mind at all times. Knowing our own strength when it comes to lifting or moving heavy objects is just one aspect of this. Fatigue and stress—in both the short and long terms—can have deadly consequences if not recognized and addressed properly. In fact, working for too long without adequate rest is just as dangerous as working while intoxicated. As a rule, if you feel you might be too tired to work, then you should immediately engage your manager or safety team before your fatigue contributes to a safety incident. Sometimes employees may not want to admit that they're not up for a job. It's not uncommon in a busy, prod​uctive workplace like ours. But knowing our limits and being responsible enough not to push ourselves beyond them is the best way to keep each other safe. If you can't do a job alone, always ask for help. We'll all be safer for it.​​.

[Audio] If wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for your job, it's required for good reason. PPE is often the last line of defense when accidents occur. It can mean the difference between a close call and a serious injury—or worse.​ ​ In fact, if you're involved in a safety incident, the chances of getting hurt d​ecrease drastically—often by 90 percent or more—if you're wearing PPE..

[Audio] But in order for PPE to work, it has to be used properly and consistently. Every time you put on a hard hat or a pair of safety glasses, it's important to do three things:​ First, identify and keep in mind any potential hazards you might encounter during your shift and adhere to all site safety and PPE rules ​Second, maintain your PPE so that it is accessible and properly stored. Being ready to use your PPE when it's needed can be crucial to preventing accidents ​​Third, inspect each piece of equipment before you put it on, checking to make sure that it is safe to use. Inform your supervisor if your PPE needs to be replaced or repaired It's also essential that all managers train employees to use and maintain PPE properly, and that employees attend all necessary PPE training. This helps to ensure that everyone at Emerson—whether you regularly use PPE or not—works together to minimize risk and​ create a working environment that's as safe as possible..

[Audio] Whether it's knowing specific site rules, observing designated safety signs, or recognizing proper emergency procedures, consistently following the rules outlined for our work environments keeps us safe and can even save lives.​ ​​ The rules and procedures for a given w​ork practice help maximize the safety of employees and protect company assets. They also help raise awareness of potential hazards and in some instances, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. The importance of these rules can't be overstated; our safety hinges on them, so following these rules is a requirement for all of us, from entry-level employees to top-level executives..

[Audio] An important aspect of complying with site rules is properly observing safety signage and warning labels. These signs can be informative or cautionary, providing critical information about potential hazards. With our busy schedules, it sometimes can be easy to walk right be these signs, but don't tune them out! Know the ones in your work area and understand their meanings. Besides understanding and obeying the signs at your facility, it's important to do the same at a supplier's or customer's location. Safety signage is becoming more internationally standardized, but variation by region or country still exist. Make it a point to know the safety signs where you work or where you might be going, and stay vigilant. In addition to recognizing safety signage, a thorough knowledge of emergency protocols is critical to staying safe and ensuring the safety of others when an unexpected situation occurs. Emergencies can occur with little to no notice. That's when it can be most difficult to stay calm and think logically, so knowing emergency procedures ahead of time can enable you to respond quickly, administer aid and potentially save lives. Remember, when it comes to safety, these aren't just rules – ​ they're rules to live by..

[Audio] Good housekeeping at work is about more than making our surroundings clean and visually appealing; it's about keeping us safe.​​​ ​ When we take the time to maintain our workspaces, we're assisting in fire prevention and helping prevent slips, trips, and falls – leading causes of injuries in the workplace. In fact, a clutter-free work environment can even improve our productivity and morale while helping us make good first impressions with visitors​..

[Audio] Despite the many benefits of a well-maintained workplace, the hectic pace of our work can lead us to overlook this lifesaving behavior. That's why it's important to create and consistently follow a good housekeeping program that includes: Ongoing cleanup during your shift Daily cleanup Proper waste disposal Removal of unused materials Inspection to ensure cleanup is effective​ and complete..

[Audio] Remember that good housekeeping is maintained, not achieved. Periodic "panic" cleanups are costly and ineffective at reducing accidents, so get in the habit of cleaning and organizing regularly – and don't forget about those out-of-the-way cabinets, tool boxes, shelves, basements, sheds, and maintenance rooms that might otherwise be overlooked. Good housekeeping also extends beyond our immediate workspace and to the environment, at large. The Emerson Good Environmental Management Practices (GEMP) Manual can help us meet this responsibility by detailing some essential elements to incorporate into our housekeeping programs, such as: Placing trays under dispensing units to catch drips or spills Installing secondary containment around containers or areas used for storing liquid materials Having an active program to manage empty containers Developing a process to handle out-of-service equipment ​Not allowing temporary leaks to become a permanent leak A clean workplace is a safe workplace, and when we all take the time to make good housekeeping part of our daily routines we make Emerson safer – for all of us..

[Audio] Ever​ywhere we go—whether we're visiting a customer site, driving to the office, or traveling abroad–warning signs are all around us: "No smoking," "Danger," "Flammable liquid," "High voltage," "No entry," "Watch your step." These signs are so familiar to us and such a ubiquitous part of our everyday lives that sometimes we may not pay enough attention to them. ​ ​ That's why it's so important to always take the time to observe and comply with warning signs no matter where we are—on the job or at home. Warning signs communicate critical, lifesaving information; it's our responsibility as Emerson employees not only to pay attention to them, but to also understand and take them seriously at all times..

[Audio] Most of us cou​ldn't do our jobs without using some kind of a tool—whether it's a screwdriver or a laptop or a soldering iron. In fact, we might use some tools on such a regular basis that, after a while, we tend to take them for granted. ​ Despite how much we try to be safe and use caution in everything we do, it can be easy to forget how critical it is to always use the right tool for the right job in the right way. Using the wrong tool to get something done, or using it improperly—especially if we're in a hurry or shorthanded for some reason—can lead to accidents, injuries, or worse..

[Audio] There are several things to remember when using tools safely: ​First, always select the right tool for the job, and only use tools for the purpose intended. That means never using a screwdriver to pry open the lid of an equipment case, and always opening boxes with utility knives. Second, carefully inspect all tools pr​ior to use to make sure they're safe. For example, make sure ladders are secured to the g​round and set at the proper angle before climbing them. Third, never use a damaged tool, and don't improvise with tools to get a job done more quickly. If a tool is broken or worn, discard it and replace it immediately. By staying mindful and always using our tools properly and with care, we'll all be safer for it.​​.

[Audio] Driving is unique among the behaviors in Emerson's safety awareness program. It's ​not only an activity that the vast majority of us perform on a daily basis, but it's also among the riskiest behaviors of all—partly because most of us do it so often that we tend to lower our guard without thinking much about it. The fact is, two out of three drivers will be involved in an injury accident at some point in their lives. In 2012 alone, there were 30,800 fatal car crashes in the U.S.—an average of 92 each day​..

[Audio] On the job, it's certainly one of the highest risk activities our employees engage in. Those of us in sales, business development, services, and projects all drive regularly as part of our jobs. The rest of us usually find ourselves behind the wheel several times a day, whether it's commuting to work, dropping off the kids at school, running errands, or hitting the road to visit family for the holidays. ​ As common—and potentially dangerous—as driving is, there are several simple safety concepts that we can all put into practice to protect ourselves and others on the road: 1.Follow the rules of the road – First and foremost, always know and follow the speed limit. Speed is a contributing factor in many deadly road accidents. Driving just a few miles (or kilometers) per hour over the speed limit can have a significant impact on stopping distance and reaction time; in fact, the risk of being involved in a casualty accident doubles with every 5 mph/kph over 60 mph/kph we drive. And it should go without saying that driving while impaired or intoxicated is dangerous at any speed. It's also important to remember that driving laws can vary significantly depending on the country, region, or town, especially regarding the use of mobile devices. It's your responsibility when driving on the job to understand and follow the local regulations wherever your route takes you, whether it's from the airport to a customer site overseas or from your office to your driveway. 2. Remove all distractions – Talking on the phone, eating, consulting the GPS, texting, adjusting the radio, putting on makeup—many of us are guilty of committing at least one or two of these no-no's behind the wheel from time to time, but the truth is that they're all distractions that can mean the difference between life and death on the road. Cellphone use while driving, for example, can quadruple the risk of an accident—that's why at least 32 countries have banned it outright. So as a rule, never drive while distracted—pull over if you must—and remove as many potential distractions from your environment before you drive, rather than wait until it may be too late. 3. Never drive tired – In addition to excessive speed and distracted driving, fatigue is a leading cause of vehicular accidents worldwide. More than 50 percent of fatigue-related accidents occur between midnight and 6:00 am, and tiredness or driver fatigue is a contributing factor in many fatal accidents. ​ The best way to avoid driving while fatigued is to prepare for your trip with a good night's sleep (at least 7 to 8 hours) beforehand, never drive more than 9 hours in any one day, and take regular breaks on your trip to get out of the vehicle and move around. 4. Plan ahead – This is especially important when you're overseas or driving in unfamiliar territory for work. Always plan your route ahead of time so that you're not rushed or distracted on the road by having to consult a map or GPS. Be aware of road closures or detours, and familiarize yourself with the weather forecast along your route before hand—especially if there is a chance of inclement weather that requires driving in hazardous conditions like snow, rain, or ice. Finally, if you're required to take a taxi or use a driving service while on the job, always be sure to engage a licensed, reputable service—and never get in a car with a someone you don't trust. What should you do in the case.

[Audio] At Emerson, we strive for a culture in which our employees are empowered to speak up and take action when we observe behaviors or hazards that could result in safety incidents. We want our employees to address these types of issues as soon as possible. However, there will be occasions when one of us might not be able to resolve potential incidents by ourselves or within our work groups. In these cases, it's imperative that we escalate these potential hazards and bring them to the attention of upper management so that they can be mitigated before anyone is injured.​​​ ​.

[Audio] Certain employees may not be comfortable speaking up when they observe a potential safety hazard or behavior that could lead to injury. They may also feel uncomfortable escalating these types of issues to their supervisor or managers. Still, it is imperative that potentially dangerous situations be identified and properly addressed. We require all employees to do the following: ​ ​P​​roactively identify potential safety hazards or behaviors Address these potential hazards immediately and resolve as soon as practical ​If you cannot address the hazard yourself or within​​ your work group, escalate the issue per your site's escalation process. If no formal process is in place, then escalate to your supervisor, management, or local Health & Safety leader ​If you are uncomfortable escalating an issue, you may also use the Ethics Hotline process The best way to escalate a safety issue will depend on where you are. An employee who has an issue on a customer site should escalate the issue to his or her management, and that manager should escalate even higher if an employee is being asked to work in an unsafe location or manner by a customer. Employees can also escalate directly to the safety team or to HR. Each employee also has a final say in how they work, called "stop work authority." Stop work authority is a natural part of escalation if something is unsafe. Typically, the employee would stop work and then inform their manager and the customer and escalate as needed. It is always better for an employee to escalate a concern than work in an unsafe manner. If you have questions about the 12 lifesaving behaviors or about safety in general, please talk to your supervisor or site safety coordinator, or contact one of the Safety Team members above.

[Audio] If you find yourself unsure or in doubt about any EHS matter, don't hesitate to ask questions. Reach out to your local EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) representative for guidance and information. If needed, escalate your inquiry to the Director of EHS for further assistance. At Emerson, we prioritize finding answers and ensuring clarity, so rest assured that we will go the extra mile to provide you with the information you need. Thank you for your attention and contributions to our ever-evolving safety culture..