Safe Work Procedure: Making Wood Skids (Over 50 lbs)

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures for the manual handling and construction of wood skids weighing over 50 lbs. It applies to all workers involved in the process of building wood skids, ensuring that the task is performed safely and efficiently. This procedure covers the selection of materials, the use of tools, and the techniques for assembling skids while minimizing the risk of injury.

2. Definitions

Skid: A platform used to support and transport goods.

Manual Handling: The lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, or otherwise moving of objects by hand or bodily force.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe boots.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
• Provide the necessary tools and equipment in good working condition.
• Enforce the use of required PPE.
• Conduct regular inspections of the work area to identify and correct hazards.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures outlined in this SWP.
• Use the provided PPE correctly and consistently.
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
• Participate in pre-job briefings and ask questions if unsure about any aspect of the task.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of this SWP.
• Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance with safety procedures.
• Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Heavy Lifting	Back strain, muscle injury	Use proper lifting techniques, get assistance for heavy loads, take frequent breaks
Sharp Edges/Splinters	Cuts, lacerations, puncture wounds	Wear gloves, inspect wood for defects, use caution when handling
Slips, Trips, and Falls	Sprains, fractures, contusions	Maintain a clean and organized work area, wear appropriate footwear, be aware of surroundings
Tool Usage (e.g., hammers, saws)	Cuts, lacerations, eye injuries	Use tools properly, wear safety glasses, ensure tools are in good working condition
Dust inhalation	Respiratory irritation, silicosis	Use dust mask or respirator, work in well-ventilated area [1], use dust collection systems
Eye Contact	Serious eye irritation. Symptoms may include discomfort or pain, excess blinking and tear production, with marked redness and swelling of the conjunctiva [2]	Wear approved eye protection [properly fitted dust- or splash-proof chemical safety goggles/face (face shield)] [1]
Skin Contact	May cause skin irritation. Handling can cause dry skin, discomfort, irritation, and dermatitis. May cause an allergic skin reaction [2]	Wear impervious gloves, such as nitrile [1], Wear suitable protective clothing [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use proper PPE to minimize the risk of injury [1].

• Safety Glasses: Protect eyes from dust, debris, and flying particles [1].
• Gloves: Protect hands from splinters, cuts, and abrasions [1].
• Steel-Toe Boots: Protect feet from falling objects and punctures.
• Dust Mask/Respirator: Prevent inhalation of wood dust and other airborne particles [1].
• Hearing Protection: Use earplugs or earmuffs if the noise level is high.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or wear. Replace damaged PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Always use proper equipment and tools for the task [1].

• Hammer: For driving nails and assembling the skid.
• Saw (Hand or Power): For cutting wood to the required dimensions.
• Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
• Pencil/Marker: For marking cut lines.
• Nail Gun (Optional): For faster assembly.
• Work Bench: Provides a stable surface for cutting and assembly.

Inspect all tools and equipment before each use to ensure they are in good working condition. Replace or repair any damaged tools.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in the safe use of tools and equipment, proper lifting techniques, and hazard awareness.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the task, potential hazards, and safety procedures. Ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Clear the work area of any obstructions and ensure it is well-lit.
• Provide adequate ventilation to minimize dust exposure [1].
• Ensure all tools and equipment are readily available and in good working condition.
• Set up a designated area for cut-off pieces and waste materials.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Material Selection and Preparation

Select the appropriate type and size of wood for the skids. Inspect each piece for defects such as knots, cracks, or rot.

• Sub-step 1.1: Gather all necessary materials (wood, nails, screws, etc.).
• Sub-step 1.2: Inspect wood for defects and ensure it is of the correct dimensions.
• Sub-step 1.3: Stage materials in the work area for easy access.

Safety considerations: Wear gloves to protect against splinters and sharp edges.

Step 2: Cutting the Wood

Measure and mark the wood according to the required dimensions. Use a saw to cut the wood accurately.

• Sub-step 2.1: Measure and mark the wood using a measuring tape and pencil.
• Sub-step 2.2: Secure the wood on a workbench or stable surface.
• Sub-step 2.3: Cut the wood along the marked lines using a saw.

Safety considerations: Wear safety glasses to protect against flying debris. Use a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling wood dust [1].

Step 3: Assembling the Skid

Position the cut pieces according to the skid design. Use a hammer or nail gun to assemble the skid securely.

• Sub-step 3.1: Position the base pieces of the skid on a flat surface.
• Sub-step 3.2: Attach the support pieces to the base using nails or screws.
• Sub-step 3.3: Ensure all connections are secure and the skid is stable.

Safety considerations: Wear gloves to protect hands from hammer strikes and sharp edges. Ensure the skid is assembled on a level surface.

Step 4: Inspection and Finishing

Inspect the completed skid for any defects or weaknesses. Make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

• Sub-step 4.1: Check all connections to ensure they are secure.
• Sub-step 4.2: Sand down any rough edges or splinters.
• Sub-step 4.3: Ensure the skid is level and stable.

Safety considerations: Wear gloves and safety glasses during inspection and finishing.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back strain. Keep your back straight, bend your knees, and keep the load close to your body.
• Team Lifting: For skids weighing over 50 lbs, use team lifting to distribute the load and reduce the risk of injury.
• Work Area: Keep the work area clean and organized to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
• Tool Safety: Use tools only for their intended purpose and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to minimize exposure to wood dust [1].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Ensure all workers are safe and accounted for. Contact emergency services if necessary.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Injury: Provide first aid and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Fire: Evacuate the area and activate the fire alarm. Use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small and contained [3].
• Spill: Contain the spill and clean it up according to the appropriate procedures [3].

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency Services: 911
• [Company Safety Officer]: [PHONE NUMBER]
• [Local Hospital]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

---

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

Safety powered by SALUS