Health and Safety Policy Acknowledgment and Sign-Off

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This health and safety policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors of the organization. It outlines the commitment to providing a safe and healthy working environment, preventing injuries and illnesses, and complying with all applicable occupational health and safety regulations.

2. Definitions

Hazard A condition or activity with the potential to cause harm, injury, or illness. Risk The probability that a hazard will cause harm and the severity of that harm. Control Measure Measures taken to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with a hazard. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that can cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• The master must ensure that action is taken, without delay, to correct an unsafe or harmful condition or situation. [1]
• The master must report to the owner of the fishing vessel all injuries that required medical aid and record all injuries in the vessel log book. [3]
• Before leaving on a voyage the master must ensure that the fishing vessel is capable of safely making the passage, due consideration being given to the seaworthiness of the vessel, the stowage and securing of all cargo, skiffs, equipment, fuel containers and supplies, ballasting, and present and forecast weather conditions. [3]
• Before the start of each fishing season, the master must ensure that each crewmember is instructed in the operational characteristics of the fishing vessel including the location and use of safety equipment, engine room components and controls, deck equipment and rigging, navigation equipment and electronic aids, fishing equipment and its use, including safe work practices for each fishery the vessel will be engaged in, procedures for anchoring the vessel, the location and use of emergency equipment, including firefighting and radio equipment, and escape routes in the event of fire. [4]
• The master must ensure that all rigging is maintained and inspected regularly to ensure that it is able to safely carry out the work for which it was designed. [1]

3.2 Workers

• Crewmembers must take all reasonable precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of themselves and other persons on board the fishing vessel. [3]
• Crewmembers must report all injuries to the master, without delay. [3]
• A crewmember who observes an unsafe or harmful condition or situation must immediately report it to the master. [1]

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Equipment Malfunction	Injury due to faulty or improperly used equipment.	Ensure regular inspection and maintenance of equipment. Provide training on proper use. Implement lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance.
Slips, Trips, and Falls [2]	Injuries from slips, trips, and falls due to poor housekeeping or unsuitable surfaces.	Implement housekeeping procedures. Use non-slip flooring. Provide adequate lighting. Ensure workers wear appropriate footwear.
Manual Handling	Musculoskeletal injuries due to improper lifting or repetitive tasks.	Provide training on safe lifting techniques. Use mechanical aids where possible. Ensure proper ergonomics in workstation design.
Exposure to Hazardous Substances	Illness or injury due to inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with hazardous materials.	Ensure proper ventilation. Use appropriate respirators when required. Monitor air quality regularly.
Excessive Noise	Hearing damage due to prolonged exposure to high noise levels.	Provide hearing protection. Implement noise reduction measures. Conduct regular noise monitoring.
Fire	Burns, smoke inhalation, and other injuries due to fire.	Ensure workers are trained in emergency procedures. Conduct regular drills. Maintain emergency equipment.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times when required. Ensure PPE is in good condition and fits properly.

• Hard Hat: Provides head protection from falling objects and impacts. Must meet CSA standards.
• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Protects eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes. Select appropriate type for the hazard.
• Safety Boots: Protects feet from impacts, punctures, and chemical exposure. Must meet CSA standards.
• Gloves: Protects hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Select appropriate type for the task.
• Respirator: Provides respiratory protection in environments with airborne contaminants. Select appropriate type and ensure proper fit testing.

All rigging is maintained and inspected regularly to ensure that it is able to safely carry out the work for which it was designed. [1]

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training: All workers must receive adequate instruction in fire prevention and emergency evacuation procedures applicable to their workplace. Workers assigned to firefighting duties in their workplace must be given adequate training, by a qualified instructor, in fire suppression methods, fire prevention, emergency procedures, organization and chain of command, firefighting crew safety and communications applicable to their workplace. [5] [5]

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Before starting any task, conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss potential hazards, safe work procedures, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and hazards. Maintain floors, platforms, ramps, stairs and walkways available for use by workers in a state of good repair and kept free of slipping and tripping hazards. [2]

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Review the Policy: Read the entire Health and Safety Policy document carefully to understand its contents.
2. Understand Your Responsibilities: Ensure you understand all aspects of the policy and how it applies to your role and responsibilities.
3. Seek Clarification: If you have any questions or require clarification, ask your supervisor or a member of the health and safety committee.
4. Sign the Acknowledgment Form: Sign the acknowledgment form to indicate that you have read, understood, and agree to comply with the Health and Safety Policy.
5. Submit the Form: Submit the signed form to your supervisor or the designated department for record-keeping.
6. Comply with the Policy: Adhere to the Health and Safety Policy in all work activities and promote a safe working environment.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Maintain a clean and organized work environment to prevent slips, trips, and falls. [1]
• Report any unsafe conditions or hazards to your supervisor immediately. [1]
• Use equipment and tools only for their intended purpose and ensure they are in good working condition.
• Follow all established safe work procedures and practices.
• Participate in health and safety training programs to enhance your knowledge and skills.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, remain calm and follow established emergency procedures. Evacuate the area if necessary and assist others as needed.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fire: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the building. Follow the emergency evacuation plan and proceed to the designated assembly point. Report to the designated fire warden.
• Medical Emergency: Administer first aid if trained to do so. Call for medical assistance and provide details of the injury or illness.
• Chemical Spill: Follow the established spill control procedures. Contain the spill and prevent it from spreading. Report the spill to the appropriate authorities.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, injuries, and near misses must be reported to your supervisor immediately. The supervisor will complete an incident report and submit it to the health and safety department. [3]

The health and safety department will investigate all reported incidents to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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