Take 5 to save lives

By Brad Roberts

Take 5 is a simple risk assessment process that involves taking a moment to think through the task at hand, identify risks, and adopt measures to get on with the task safely.

Risks can change from day to day and job to job. Routine jobs can be dangerous if you become complacent and just as risky as unfamiliar tasks without the proper safety measures in place.

Vessel owners are legally responsible for identifying the risks in an operation, and managing the risks through a safety management system. By talking to the vessel owner about any risks you are not able to control safely, you are contributing to a safe work culture.

Take 5 doesn’t replace the safety management system. It is a useful tool that can form a part of the safety management system and help keep people safe as tasks and work conditions change.

Remember, the quickest way or the traditional way of going about a task is not necessarily the safest way.

How to Take 5

Before starting work on a task, think about the risks involved and implement changes or control measures to complete the task safely.

Use these steps to help you.

1. Stop.

Take a few steps back from the work to assess what the task involves.

2. Think.

Is it safe? Are there other ways to do the work? Is there a safety procedure in place that I can follow? Do I have the permits I need?

3. Identify.

Look for the hazards. What has changed in the environment? What is different with this job? How will I get out or stop the job in an emergency? Do I have the correct personal protective equipment?

4. Control.

Control the hazard. Awareness of the risk is not an adequate control. What can I do about it? Can I eliminate the risk, or replace it with something less risky? Can I isolate the risk, apply guards, or redesign the work? Do I need to create a procedure or train people on how to manage risks involved with the task? Do staff need to wear personal protective equipment for the task?

5. Do it safely!

Will these controls help me and my crew to stay safe? If yes, do it safely. If not, don’t go ahead with the work.