There’s a story about a man who had operated a band saw for many years without a single accident. When asked how he managed to avoid injury, he responded, “I just count my fingers before I start sawing, and then I count them again after I’ve finished. If I have the same number, I did good.”

Behind the humor is a safety secret: The man was consistently attentive and aware of ever-present danger. He was committed to his personal safety program. He was successful in preventing injury.

At Friday Staffing, safety is no secret. Our commitment to total injury prevention begins with me. It requires the participation of every member of our organization. Yes, we can be successful. We will all benefit from the results. Our efforts must focus most clearly on the types of injuries we know we have suffered in the past, particularly:

• Hand injuries, from handling materials, machines, tools, etc. For most of us, our hands are essential to our livelihood, and we simply need to get better at protecting them.
• Strains from lifting. If we cannot safely lift or handle our work materials, we need to use another method. We must protect our backs and other vulnerable parts of our bodies.
• New-Field-Associates injuries. New staff cannot avoid knowing Friday’s policy: Safety First. They have all watched Friday’s safety video, have signed the Safety Policy and read the “Accidents Needn’t Happen” brochure. But when someone is new on the job, they have a lot to think about. Experienced co-workers should look out for new employees and bring unsafe habits or behavior to their attention. As always, any injury should be reported immediately so that we have the best chance to respond quickly.

For over 20 years, Friday Staffing has successfully provided the highest quality staffing service to our clients, and a valuable work opportunity for our Field Staff. Neither clients nor employees should ever think work-related injuries are a normal part of doing business with Friday Staffing. We never want to see our employees harmed as a result of work. We will constantly measure our progress and success in preventing injuries. Each of us should make a personal commitment to protect the welfare of ourselves and our fellow Field Associates.