WHAT IS A JOB SAFETY OBSERVATION (JSO)?
This job safety observation also known as planned task observation is conducted to determine the number of unsafe actions or conditions that occur in a given time when a particular task is conducted in the workplace. Through these planned task observations, corrective action can be taken by the employer, via coaching and training, to rectify poor work practices or risky behaviours in order to improve safety while performing this planned task as well as the productivity of the task.
WHO NEEDS TO DO THIS?
This job safety observation is intended for all companies who wish to identify and correct any concerning risks or risky behaviours that may be associated with job tasks that are conducted within their organisation.
WHY IS THIS JOB SAFETY OBSERVATION IMPORTANT?
This job safety observation is important because it determines if employees conducting tasks are carrying these out correctly and safely and identifies if any risky behaviours are exhibited while a task is performed. Through this, unsafe actions and behaviours can be corrected through coaching and instruction, improving task productivity and improving the safety and health of employees conducting the task. Job safety observations also reinforce safe behaviours and allow employees an opportunity to provide input and speak up on any concerns they may have while conducting a task, improving employee co-operation and morale.
This provides evidence to an inspector that hazards and risks are being identified by the organisation and that pro-active efforts are being undertaken by the organisation to ensure that employees work safely in the workplace.
VALIDITY
This job safety observation must be conducted by a person who is competent to do so and who has been appointed to carry out the task. The details of the job safety observation must be documented, dated and signed off by the person conducting the observation process.
The document must be maintained and reviewed regularly so that it remains relevant and must be available to any interested parties who wish to view it.
COSTING
This job safety observation is costed per task observed which means the displayed cost is per task. For example, if a user requires10 (ten) tasks to be observed, the order should be made for the total number of tasks required for job safety observations:
Job safety observation requires 10 (ten) tasks to be observed = 10.
Cost of order = 10 x cost per task observed (add this product 10 times in the SafetyShop).
