At BrightView, we have a widely distributed business, so to standardize how we operationalize safety every day in all of our branches, our leadership team has defined and developed a “Daily Safety Game Plan.” This commitment begins when our teams arrive in the morning and doesn’t end until they walk through their own front door.

Preparing for work

• Start each morning with a team “stretch-and-flex” to prepare our bodies for a full day of work.
• Perform a gate check for all of our trucks and trailers to make sure everything is in working condition.
• Double check that teams have all of their personal protective equipment (PPE), enough water to keep hydrated and all the necessary supplies for the day.

Our commitment to safety is reinforced through daily morning huddles and weekly tailgate meetings, new-hire orientations and a buddy system for new team members.

Safe driving

• Plan routes to job sites ahead of time.
• Use seat belts whenever a vehicle is in motion.
• Keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving. Distracted driving is not only illegal, but it’s dangerous to you and those around you.
• Prevent fuel spills by properly filling vehicles and fuel containers.
• Drive the posted speed limit and keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.

On the job site

• Review the production plan before each job and confirm each team member is properly trained on equipment before he or she uses it.
• Conduct a “Take 2” prejob safety briefing to make sure teams are following safety procedures and wearing appropriate PPE.
• Recognize team members who continually exhibit safe behavior and responsibly maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
• Ensure crews take frequent breaks to prevent fatigue and dehydration.
• Recognize unsafe conditions and stop any work activity that causes concern about personal safety and report those unsafe conditions to supervisors.

Post-production

• Use a spotter when backing a vehicle into a spot and be sure the first move is always forward.
• Secure equipment and vehicles in their proper location.
• Clean and organize trucks and equipment daily.
• Inform the branch manager of any near misses or hazards and any other safety concerns.
• Conduct root cause analysis for all injuries and review with management on weekly safety calls.

illustration: BrightView