Safety is everyones responsibility at work, across every industry, but none is more important than the infrastructure industry. Having the correct processes in place can reduce incidents and accidents – including fatal ones.
Statistics show that individuals who report Close Calls are less likely to have an accident at work, as Close Calls are focused on Safety.
Unlike accidents / incident reporting, Close Calls warn you about about somthing that could happen before it does.
Following Network Rail Life Saving Rules, identifying and reporting safety hazards or concerns, listening and understanding safety briefings, and being competent in the works being undertaken are key to maintaining the safety of all.
With that in mind, heres a quick recap on what a close call is, what to do if you see a close call and how to report one.
WHAT IS A CLOSE CALL?
According to Network Rail, Close Calls are anything that could harm or damage. This includes the potential to:
- Harm a person Including minor injuries, major injuries and fatalities
- Harm the environment and or protective species
- Damage railway infrastructure, plant, vehicles,tools, equipment, systems and information
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CLOSE CALL AND AN INCIDENT?
A close call is something that could happen, whereas an incident has already taken place. For example, if a trip hazard is spotted it can be reported as a close call because someone could trip over it. If someone actually trips because of the hazard than it is classed as an incident.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A CLOSE CALL
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you see something that could cause harm or damage follow these steps:
- RECOGNISE – Could it cause harm or damage?
- RESPOND – What can you do?
- FIX THE SITUATION – if you can do so safely – Then report it.
- ALWAYS CHALLENGE UNSAFE BEHAVIOR – Then report it.
- INFORM OTHERS AROUND YOU – So they are aware of any risk.
- ALWAYS REPORT CLOSE CALLS
