On the occasion of the North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, we have decided to speak up to raise awareness on a topic that is dear to us: health and safety at work. Safety in the workplace is not only a regulatory obligation; it is at the heart of our daily concerns, thus ensuring the protection of our team and the quality of our interventions.
In this blog, let us delve into the rigorous measures we implement to ensure a safe working environment for all our employees. We'll also present our proactive approach; ongoing training for staff, the development of project-specific protection plans, and the engagement of experts to maintain and improve our safety standards.
Expertise and Complex Maneuvers at Basco Doors and Windows
At Basco Doors and Windows, we face unique challenges on every project due to the complexity of the required maneuvers and the often difficult-to-access environments. Our team, skilled in carefully handling fragile materials such as glass, is consistently required to operate in conditions that necessitate a high degree of technical proficiency and unwavering commitment to safety standards.
The profession of glazier entails numerous risks that can lead to occupational illnesses or serious accidents. Among these risks, we encounter deep cuts from glass or sharp tools, falls during the installation of glass panels at heights, chemical exposures to solvents present in sealants and adhesives, and musculoskeletal injuries resulting from handling heavy glass plates or improper postures during work. Additionally, significant physical exertion, working at heights, exposure to the elements, and the use of sharp materials and chemicals require the adoption of strict preventive measures.
Therefore, it's crucial within our industry to prioritize preventive measures for health and safety at work!
Let's take, for example, one of our flagship projects from 2023 at the Mount Royal Sanctuary, a condominium complex. This project required the repair and maintenance of high-rise solariums. It called for technical expertise to replace sealed units and specific logistics for safe access at altitude.
Working at heights, especially in urban environments, poses increased risks for our technicians and the public. We plan and execute each step with extreme precision. We utilize advanced personal protective equipment and special access techniques to ensure the safety of our teams while minimizing disruptions to the surroundings.
Maintaining the solariums required particular precision. It wasn't only about replacing damaged glass, the reinforcement of the solarium was a priority as well. This approach ensures their long-term durability and functionality. Our precise interventions restored the beauty and safety of these glazed spaces, essential for the residents' well-being.
This project illustrates the complexity of tasks that Basco Doors and Windows can handle. It underscores our commitment to operational excellence and workplace safety. Each mission is an opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in managing high-risk and technically demanding projects, strengthening our reputation as a leader in the industry.
Prevention and Safety Measures at Basco Doors and Windows
At Basco Doors and Windows, preventing occupational risks for our glaziers is an absolute priority, integrating a comprehensive approach to collective and individual prevention. We combine rigorous organization, adapted facilities, and dedicated safety training to minimize exposure to hazards and the frequency of accidents.
Collective and Individual Prevention Strategy
Our collective prevention strategy begins with meticulous planning of site organization and layout, including secure deployment and circulation of personnel and materials, thus reducing the risks of falls and accidental contact. We also prioritize ground operations to minimize work at heights. When working at heights is unavoidable, we utilize specialized equipment, such as personnel lifts or scaffolding, per the strictest safety standards.
Individual prevention involves systematically using personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, safety shoes, protective eyewear, cut-resistant gloves, and appropriate clothing. These PPE are essential for protection against risks of cuts, falling objects, and exposure to chemicals.
Risk Assessment and Safety Training
We conduct regular assessments of occupational risks, enabling us to draft the Single Safety Document, which evaluates both the material environment and the effectiveness of protection. Additionally, we ensure that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are accessible for all hazardous products used, along with training on understanding their labeling and associated risks.
Handling Aids and Installation Safety
To minimize physical risks associated with handling heavy glass, we provide aids such as wheeled carts, suction cups, and truck-mounted cranes. These tools reduce physical strain on our employees and the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and cuts.
Safety Training
Continuous training is at the core of our safety strategy. PRAP training to teach proper posture, safe lifting techniques, specific training on working at heights, and safely handling chemicals are all included. Every employee undergoes training to utilize equipment and respond efficiently during emergencies correctly.
By integrating these policies and procedures, Basco Doors and Windows is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for all its employees while ensuring the quality and efficiency of our services. Our commitment to safety is unwavering. We recognize that ensuring the safety of our staff is vital for the success of our projects and the satisfaction of our clients.