Stillages Safety Training: Fostering a Culture of Recognising and Reporting Defects

Ensuring the safe use of stillages is a central tenet of Lowe Stillages and Cages’ commitment to the workplace safety of all our clients. This process relies heavily on your employees being trained to recognise and promptly report any defects or issues with stillages in accordance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). In this blog post, we outline how employers can effectively accomplish this vital safety task.

Provide Comprehensive Training

The first step towards achieving this goal is to offer comprehensive training programs. Employees should be trained to look for visual cues, common defects, and signs of wear or damage during inspections. It’s important to ensure that all personnel understand the critical elements of safe stillage use and are fully equipped to recognise potential issues.

Identify Defects and Issues

The training should include the education of employees on the various defects and issues that may arise with stillages, such as cracks, bends, corrosion, loose components, or malfunctioning mechanisms. Practical exercises that allow employees to identify these defects through visual inspections and functional testing can be particularly effective.

Establish Clear Reporting Procedures

Once employees are equipped to recognise potential problems, they need to know how to report them effectively. Clear reporting procedures should be established and communicated to all staff. These procedures should guide employees on how to properly document and report their findings, including whom to notify, what information to provide, and any specific forms or systems to use for reporting.

Encourage Timely Reporting

Stressing the importance of prompt reporting will ensure that any issues identified can be swiftly addressed. Employees should be trained to report any identified defects immediately to the designated personnel or department responsible for maintenance and repairs. This helps to prevent small issues from escalating into major problems and ensures adherence to LOLER regulations.

Reinforce a Culture of Safety

Above all, it’s essential to foster a culture of safety and accountability. Encourage open communication and assure employees that their reports will be taken seriously and addressed promptly. A positive safety culture empowers staff to take proactive steps to maintain a safe working environment, which ultimately contributes to overall operational efficiency.

By following these points, employers can effectively train employees to recognise and report any defects or issues with stillages as per LOLER. Comprehensive training, clear reporting procedures, timely reporting, and a safety-oriented culture contribute to the early identification and resolution of issues, promoting compliance with LOLER regulations and ensuring the safe use of stillages.

At Lowe Stillages and Cages, we remain committed to promoting best safety practices and aiding you in ensuring a secure work environment.