Your Role as a Site Safety and Health Officer

[Virtual Presenter] As a Site Safety and Health Officer, my primary responsibility is to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel on-site. I will guide you through the key aspects of this critical role, emphasizing the significance of pre-task planning, hazard identification, and effective communication. Let's delve into the realm of site safety and examine the vital skills necessary to succeed in this position..

[Audio] As you start your journey as a Site Safety and Health Officer, you will be part of a team dedicated to ensuring everyone stays safe and healthy on the job. You will learn about safety procedures, identifying potential hazards, mitigating risks, and adhering to established protocols. You are responsible for ensuring proper use of personal protective equipment and assisting others in doing the same. If you identify any situation posing an unacceptable risk, you will exercise your stop-work authority, halting operations until the issue is resolved. Your goal is to create a safe working environment where everyone feels empowered to speak up and report any concerns..

[Audio] The topics we'll be covering include the fundamentals of dredging safety, key hazards, roles and responsibilities, safety systems and programs, and safety culture and growth. As a Site Safety and Health Officer, I play a critical role in ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the dredging process. I'll explore the core hazards I'll encounter, my responsibilities within the organization, and the systems and programs designed to keep me and others safe. I'll also examine the importance of fostering a culture of safety growth..

Section 1 Intro to Dredging Safety. Christening ceremony of CSD Lorraine Hooks (VIDEO) - Dredging Today.

[Audio] As a Site Safety and Health Officer, my primary responsibility is to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel involved in the dredging operation. This includes identifying potential hazards, implementing control measures, and monitoring compliance with safety regulations. I work closely with the Captain and their crew to develop job safety analyses, conduct regular inspections, and provide training and guidance on safety procedures. My goal is to prevent accidents and injuries, and to promote a culture of safety within our organization..

[Audio] Accidents in this high-risk marine and construction environment can have severe consequences, including project shutdowns, injuries, pollution, and even fatalities. This emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety in our daily work practices. As Site Safety and Health Officers, we play a vital role in ensuring everyone follows safe protocols and procedures. We must take responsibility for creating a culture of safety, where individuals feel empowered to report any concerns or hazards they encounter. By doing so, we can minimize the likelihood of accidents and provide a safer working environment for our employees and the public..

[Audio] As a Site Safety and Health Officer, it is crucial to understand the core hazards associated with dredging. Exposure to hazardous substances, such as heavy metals and chemicals, poses significant risks to workers' health and well-being. Accidents and injuries can also occur due to the nature of the work, involving heavy machinery and equipment. Moreover, there is a risk of environmental damage, as dredging activities can impact local ecosystems and waterways. Identifying these hazards and developing strategies to mitigate them is essential to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel involved..

[Audio] As a site safety and health officer, it's crucial to recognize the real-world consequences of dredging. The improper execution of safety measures can result in near misses and incidents, posing threats to both wildlife and the general public. In this capacity, it's my duty to collaborate with other departments to guarantee that these hazards are minimized through meticulous planning, implementation, and monitoring..

[Audio] Weather, tides, and currents significantly impact dredging operations, affecting vessel control, crane operations, and other tasks. Experienced crews can still be caught off guard if conditions change rapidly. Storms, lightning, high winds, and fog can force operations to shut down quickly. It's essential to keep a close eye on forecasts and know when to stop work. Visibility can be reduced, and decks can become slippery due to wind and rain. Tides can affect access, anchoring, and pipeline operations, making it crucial to monitor changes. Strong currents can shift floating lines, move equipment unexpectedly, and knock down channel beacons. It's vital to check current data before starting work and plan the day according to conditions, not just the task. Communication with the team, using checklists, and stopping work if conditions become unsafe are all essential measures to prevent weather-related incidents..

[Audio] When conducting daily checks on heavy equipment, it's essential to complete a thorough checklist. As the Site Safety and Health Officer, I review the checklist to identify any deficiencies in the equipment. This allows me to gather valuable information about the condition of the machinery. With the operator and Captain, we discuss the findings and take corrective action to prevent equipment damage or injuries..

[Audio] When performing maintenance on electrical and hydraulic systems, it's crucial to prioritize your safety above all else. To achieve this, we must utilize lockout/tagout procedures to guarantee our protection. This process begins by disconnecting the system from its energy source, whether it's electricity or compressed air, thereby preventing unexpected start-ups or pressure releases. The guidelines for lockout/tagout procedures for each piece of equipment can be found in the safety office. It's vital to discuss these tasks during JSAs or safety meetings to ensure everyone is informed and prepared..

[Audio] As a site safety and health officer, it is crucial to understand the importance of proper chemical handling, ranging from degreasers to everyday cleaning products. Proper chemical handling necessitates having access to the necessary information contained within the Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which must be read and comprehended before utilizing any hazardous materials..

[Audio] As a site safety and health officer, it is essential to be familiar with safety procedures, including identifying potential hazards, understanding how to mitigate risks, and adhering to established protocols. We must also use personal protective equipment correctly and assist employees in wearing the right gear for the job, using it properly, and maintaining it in good condition. If we identify any situation that poses an unacceptable risk, we must exercise our stop work authority, halting operations until the issue is resolved, and the workplace is deemed safe once again..

[Audio] As a safety leader, my role goes beyond simply completing tasks. I am responsible for monitoring operations, conducting regular inspections to identify potential risks, and providing feedback and recommendations after each task. Safety meetings offer a valuable opportunity to discuss past experiences and plan for future ones. However, what is most critical is continually seeking ways to improve - safety is a dynamic process that requires ongoing refinement..

[Audio] As site safety and health officers, we must be aware of potential hazards and understand how to mitigate risks. We must adhere to established protocols and use personal protective equipment correctly. We must also assist employees in wearing the right gear for the job, using it properly, and maintaining it in good condition. If we identify any situation that poses an unacceptable risk, we must halt operations until the issue is resolved and the workplace is deemed safe once again. Remember, if it's unsafe, say something..

[Audio] As Site Safety and Health Officers, we must familiarize ourselves with Activity Hazard Analysis, or AHA, which provides site-specific safety guidance tailored for the site and equipment. Understanding these plans enables us to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe working environment..

[Audio] Conducting a Job Safety Analysis, also known as a toolbox talk, is essential before every shift. This process identifies potential hazards and controls on site, ensuring a safer working environment for everyone involved. During the meeting, it's crucial to encourage the group to ask questions and speak up if they have any concerns. The SSHO leads by asking the Captain or their crew about their planned tasks for the shift, opening communication and informing everyone of the tasks and necessary personal protective equipment. Staying involved and asking questions prevents incidents from occurring and maintains a safe working environment..

[Audio] Consistency is key when it comes to demonstrating reliability and predictability in our approach to safety. By showing up consistently, we build trust with our colleagues and create an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up if they see something that doesn't seem quite right. Additionally, learning the regulations and understanding the reasons behind them allows us to appreciate their importance and effectively communicate their significance to others. This combination of consistency and knowledge lays the foundation for taking on more significant responsibilities within our organization, making us mentors, trainers, and leaders who inspire others to prioritize safety above all else.

[Audio] To become an effective site safety and health officer, it's necessary to establish and execute efficient safety systems and programs. These programs should be created to recognize, evaluate, and regulate hazards, as well as offer instruction and education to workers. The purpose is to decrease the likelihood of mishaps and injuries, guaranteeing a secure and healthy work environment. By setting clear policies and procedures, we can ensure conformity with regulatory demands and industry norms. Our responsibility is not only to enforce safety regulations but also to foster a culture of safety, motivating workers to assume ownership of their own safety and the safety of their peers. With a thorough safety program in place, we can minimize the risk of accidents and ensure that our workplace stays a secure and healthy environment for everyone..

[Audio] As a site safety and health officer, it is crucial to ensure that personal protective equipment, or PPE, is used correctly and consistently by personnel. Basic PPE includes hard hats, boots, glasses, and hi-viz shirts. Additionally, task-specific PPE such as respirators, harnesses, face shields, and chemical gear should be utilized when necessary. The Pre-shift JSA is a good time to remind employees to grab the needed PPE for the tasks they will be performing. Even basic PPE can prevent injuries..

[Audio] As part of our duties as Site Safety and Health Officers, we oversee equipment inspections to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to guarantee the safety and well-being of our crew members. We adhere to scheduled intervals to inspect various types of equipment, including harnesses, respirators, and other safety gear. Upon identifying any deficiencies, we record them in the Deficiency Tracking Log (DTL) for documentation and follow-up purposes. We prompt report deficiencies that can be corrected by the crew to the captain to initiate corrective actions. However, when deficiencies require ordering parts or extended time to resolve, we ensure that affected crew members are informed, particularly if the deficiency may impact their safety or job performance. Clear communication and timely reporting are crucial in maintaining a safe and compliant work environment..

[Audio] Our primary objective when reporting incidents is not to place blame, but rather to analyze what occurred and take steps to avoid similar situations from happening in the future. The safety team leads the investigation, gathering insights and statements from the crew members involved. This collaborative effort enables us to pinpoint the underlying causes of the incident and implement corrective measures to prevent such occurrences from recurring..

[Audio] Regularly conducting audits and observations is crucial for identifying both unsafe conditions and positive safety practices. As an SSHO, I actively observe work being performed, assessing real-time risks and reinforcing safe behaviors. This presence in the field enables me to intervene when necessary to prevent incidents, strengthen communication with the crew, and promote a proactive safety culture. By recognizing and celebrating safe behaviors, we can identify areas for corrective action and continue to improve our safety performance.

[Audio] In the event of an unexpected event, familiarize yourself with muster stations, emergency routes, and your designated landing location. Also, update your emergency contact list, especially when dredging near utility pipelines..

[Audio] In the event of a dredge emergency, it's crucial to remain calm and follow the established emergency response plan. This plan outlines the steps to take when an unexpected situation arises, ensuring a swift and effective response. As a site safety and health officer, it's vital to be familiar with this plan, knowing what actions to take in case of an emergency. Whether it's a mechanical failure, environmental concern, or other unforeseen circumstance, having a clear plan in place ensures the well-being of all personnel involved. By following the emergency response plan, we can minimize risks and ensure a safe resolution..

[Audio] When an emergency arises, the initial action is to trigger the alarm, notifying all personnel, regardless of the severity of the situation. Subsequently, locate the closest fire extinguisher and adhere to the appropriate firefighting procedures. The dredge's general alarm will emit a 10-second blast, followed by another blast to inform external workers of the crisis. Upon regaining control of the situation, three brief horn blasts will signify the clearance to resume regular activities. However, if the situation worsens, six short blasts accompanied by a single prolonged blast will instruct everyone to evacuate the vessel immediately..

[Audio] The Leverman will provide sound signals to synchronize the emergency shutdown of the vessel. Deckhands should gather on tender boats and available vessels, prepared to abandon ship if necessary. Boatmen should relocate the boats to the starboard side of the dredge, which serves as the muster station. Engine room personnel must initiate the emergency shutdown procedure promptly. Galley staff should shut down all kitchen equipment and clear all rooms in the quarters of employees. Following the fulfillment of their emergency duties, employees should congregate in the designated muster area and await further guidance..

[Audio] As we explore the dredge, it's crucial to understand the layout of the vessel. From the bow, we move towards the stern, noting the port and starboard sides along the way. Our muster points are strategically placed on the starboard side, specifically at numbers 2, 3, and 4. Familiarizing ourselves with these locations ensures a smoother emergency response should the need arise..

[Audio] The importance of dredging safety cannot be overstated. Every single person who has joined us on this journey has played a vital role in understanding the complexities of this high-risk industry. From the introduction to the final stages, we have explored the various aspects of dredging safety, including core hazards, roles and responsibilities, safety systems and programs, and growth opportunities. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you for your dedication and commitment to creating a safe and healthy work environment..