What should be done at the beginning of a shift to promote safety?

Inspecting work areas to detect hazards is a critical step in promoting safety at the beginning of a shift. This proactive approach enables the identification of potential risks that could lead to accidents or injuries during the workday. By examining the environment, the foreman can ensure that any unsafe conditions—such as equipment malfunctions, obstructions, or improper storage of materials—are addressed before work begins.

Conducting a thorough inspection helps in creating a safer work environment and demonstrates a commitment to worker safety. It allows for immediate corrective actions to be taken, thus reducing the likelihood of accidents occurring. This practice not only safeguards the well-being of employees but also contributes to maintaining compliance with safety regulations and standards.

In contrast, while discussing production goals or providing training on past accidents may be important for overall workplace performance and awareness, these actions do not directly address immediate safety concerns. Assigning tasks without evaluations can increase the risk of accidents as it overlooks the assessment of potential hazards associated with specific jobs.