BUL K PL A N T S Employees themselves may forego the use of fall protec-
tion and other safety equipment if they believe it makes their work more laborious and difficult. In choosing equipment, bulk plant operators should keep this fact of human nature in mind. For example, in choosing between loading rack options, Semiklose advises operators to “take into account how your employees need to open hatches and whether they will be inspecting the interior of the tank. A good understanding of what they’re actually doing on the job is integral in engineering the best and safest solution.” The size of an operation is yet another safety consideration.
“Frequency of use is important to factor in,” continues Semiklose. “If you’re a smaller company or you make a specialty blend, you might receive only a few large loads a week. But for a plant that has 30 trucks arriving per day, a need for speed would be vital. If you work with knowledgeable equipment suppliers, they can help you identify needs and work within your time and cost constraints.” SafeRack’s recently introduced Erecta Step product is an
example of how manufacturers and suppliers can address safety needs identified by bulk plant operators. The modular platform and stairs can be easily assembled and configured for specific
installations, thereby allowing workers to safely step over pipes and walls. Ultimately, Semiklose believes the greatest threat to safety is
inaction. “Complacency is common for companies that are used to operating a certain way,” he cautions. “But what if a worker is unaware of potential dangers? The law says it’s your responsibility to provide a level of protection. But unfortunately, sometimes it takes a fall or a near-miss to shake up our complacency. Merely focusing on the upfront cost, rather than looking at how your employees can be safer, is a big mistake.”
PROACTIVE APPROACH At Fredericks Fuel and Heating Service, Whritenour concurs with the need for a proactive approach to safety. “Federal and state regulations require daily, monthly, and quarterly inspec- tions,” he reports, “but we also prevent spills through training.” The company’s safety plan includes a semiannual “spill drill.” After each drill, he explains, “We critique ourselves and talk to our drivers to see if we could do something different. The drill is great for experienced drivers whose jobs can be monotonous, and also beneficial for new employees who will often make innovative suggestions.”
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JUNE 2011 | FUEL OIL NEWS | www.fueloilnews.com
