Written by: Rebecca Mock
Energy audits are a crucial component for helping clients identify ways to save energy, reduce costs, and enhance the sustainability of buildings and industrial sites. But as crucial as these audits are, they come with their share of risks. Whether it's navigating through confined spaces, working at heights, or handling potentially hazardous materials, energy auditors need to stay vigilant about safety at all times.
If you’re an energy auditor, or simply curious about what it takes to stay safe in this line of work, this guide is for you. Let’s walk through some key safety tips to keep in mind during on-site visits.
Prep Before You Go
Research the Site: Before you even step on site, reach out to your site contact and ask about any known hazards or safety protocols.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ask your contact about necessary PPE including hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing, face masks, and steel-toed boots. Most locations will provide the necessary equipment if you do not have your own.
Tools and Equipment: Inspect all tools and equipment to ensure they are in good working condition. Bring a first aid kit and a flashlight.
Make Contact When You Arrive
Check-In Procedures: Identify yourself (bring identification) and report to the site supervisor or designated contact upon arrival. Follow any site-specific check-in procedures, such as signing a logbook.
Safety Briefing: Request a safety briefing if one is not provided. Understand the emergency evacuation routes, first aid stations, and any site-specific hazards.
Familiarize Yourself with the Environment: Walk around the site to identify potential hazards such as slippery surfaces, uneven floors, exposed electrical wiring, potential steam leaks, or hazardous materials.
Always Keep Safety Top of Mind
Avoid Working Alone: Whenever possible, work with a partner. If you must work alone, ensure someone knows your location and the expected duration of the visit.
Maintain Situational Awareness: Stay alert to your surroundings, including the movement of machinery, vehicles, or other workers. Avoid distractions such as using a mobile phone while on-site.
Follow All Safety Signs and Instructions: Adhere strictly to warning signs, barricades, and instructions provided by site personnel.
Use PPE Properly: Wear your PPE at all times in areas where it is required. Ensure it fits correctly and is used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Electrical Safety
Exercise Caution: Assume all electrical components have live current.
Avoid Live Electrical Components: Do not touch live electrical components unless you are qualified and authorized to do so. Ask the site supervisor to de-energize circuits before inspection, if possible.
Inspect Electrical Equipment: Check for frayed wires, exposed conductors, and other signs of damage. Report any hazards immediately.
Use Non-Conductive Tools: When inspecting electrical systems, use tools with insulated handles to avoid electrical shock.
Ladder Safety and Working at Heights
Inspect Ladders Before Use: Ensure that ladders are stable, in good condition, and the appropriate height for the task.
Maintain Three Points of Contact: When climbing ladders, always maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand).
Avoid Overreaching: Keep your body centered on the ladder to prevent falls. If you cannot reach something, reposition the ladder instead of overreaching.
Use Fall Protection: If working at heights, use fall protection equipment such as harnesses and guardrails as required by site safety protocols.
Confined Spaces
Assess the Space: Determine if the area is a confined space and if it requires a permit for entry. Confined spaces may have limited access, poor ventilation, or hazardous atmospheres.
Do Not Enter: If you have not received training for confined spaces, do not enter. Ask a qualified employee to collect the necessary information.
Hazardous Materials
Identify Hazardous Materials: Be aware of the presence of hazardous materials such as asbestos, chemicals, or biological hazards.
Follow Handling Procedures: Adhere to site-specific protocols for handling and disposing of hazardous materials. Wear appropriate PPE.
Avoid Disturbing Materials: Do not disturb or move materials that may contain hazardous substances unless trained and authorized to do so.
Ergonomics and Physical Safety
Lift Safely: Use proper lifting techniques—bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs. Avoid lifting heavy objects alone.
Use Ergonomically Designed Tools: Where possible, use tools designed to reduce strain on your body. Take regular breaks to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Take regular breaks to rest and stay hydrated – particularly in hot or dry environments.
Emergency Preparedness
Know Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the site's emergency procedures including the location of exits, fire extinguishers, and first aid stations.
Report Hazards and Incidents: Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately to the site supervisor. Document the incident as required by site protocols.
First Aid: Know basic first aid and how to use the first aid kit. In case of injury, seek medical attention immediately.
Post-Visit Reporting
Document Findings Safely: Once your site visit is complete, document your findings in a safe and secure environment. Ensure your report is accurate and complete.
Share Safety Concerns: If you encounter any safety issues, report them to the site management and your employer to help improve safety for future visits.
Following these safety guidelines will help ensure that energy auditors can perform their duties efficiently while minimizing the risk of injury or accident. Always prioritize safety over expedience and don't hesitate to ask questions or request assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of site safety.
If you would like more information, reach out to the Waypoint team at info@waypoint-energy.com.
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