Bolstering Off-Season Safety Protocols: A Comprehensive Guide for Propane Businesses

The off-season for propane businesses is an ideal time to strengthen safety protocols, building a secure and efficient work environment. Here is a 15-point checklist for propane businesses to utilize during the off-season, elevating their safety standards and providing reassurance for employees and customers alike.

1. Employee Safety Training – Conduct a detailed audit of all employees’ training records. Utilize resources such as the Propane Education & Research Council’s (PERC) Learning Center, which provides comprehensive training modules tailored to different roles within the industry. You can also check out Propane Safety Pro because they provide extensive resources and knowledge for individuals needing safety training or consultancy.

2. Developing Robust Site-Specific Security Measures – Formulate a strong security plan for each office and plant, ensuring all staff are thoroughly trained and the plan is reviewed and updated annually.

3. Understanding and Using Fire Extinguishers – Train all employees on the correct use and location of fire extinguishers across all sites and vehicles.

4. Emergency Preparedness – Prepare a meticulous evacuation plan for all offices and plants. Familiarize all employees with the plan and conduct regular training sessions.

5. The Blueprint for Safety: Your Operation and Maintenance Plan – Formulate an operation and maintenance plan for every plant, and ensure all personnel understand its contents. Every year, this plan needs to be evaluated and revised.

6. Maximizing Safety with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Ensure all staff are proficient in using PPE, including but not limited to eye, hand, head, and foot protection, reflective vests, and respirators.

7. Fire Safety Analysis (FSA) – Perform an FSA at each plant and ensure all employees understand its findings. Annually review and update the FSA as necessary.

8. Communication and Signage – Continually review and update safety signs and messages for clarity and relevance, reinforcing safety protocols.

9. Emphasizing Safety with an Annual Safety Day – Dedicate a day each year for a company-wide safety review. Utilize this day for training, equipment testing, hazard identification, and security infrastructure evaluation.

10. Vehicle Safety – Regularly review vehicle inspection requirements with drivers. Arrange on-site inspections and training sessions with relevant authorities.

11. Life-saving Skills – Organize regular first aid, CPR, and AED training sessions with local organizations.

12. Hazard Identification and Mitigation – Conduct frequent walkarounds and safety audits to identify and address potential hazards.

13. Safety Partnerships – Establish partnerships with local authorities and safety organizations, leveraging their expertise to enhance your safety practices.

14. Customer Safety Awareness – Utilize the off-season to communicate your safety measures and commitments to your customers.

15. Periodic Review and Updates – Regularly review and update all safety plans to ensure they remain effective in the face of changing industry standards and potential new hazards.

By adhering to this 15-point safety checklist during the off-season, propane companies can significantly enhance their safety standards, foster a culture of safety, and underscore their commitment to the security of their employees and customers.