Safety has always been at the core of everything we do at Patriot General Engineering, Inc., and in 2025, we’re taking our commitment to a whole new level. At this year’s Safety Standdown event on Friday, February 7, 2025, we’re proud to unveil our innovative “Circle of Safety” campaign. Designed to enhance situational awareness, accountability, and accident prevention, this campaign brings together four critical elements that redefine on-site safety practices.
The Four Key Elements of the “Circle of Safety” Program
- Place A Cone, Pick Up A Cone
This foundational step emphasizes parking safety and vehicle awareness:
- – Check Your Parking Brake: Always ensure your vehicle’s parking brake is engaged.
- – Turn Wheels to the Curb: Position your wheels appropriately to prevent rolling in case of brake failure.
- – Use Wheel Chocks: Secure your vehicle with wheel chocks as an added precaution.
- – Place Safety Cones Around the Vehicle: Mark your work area with safety cones to increase visibility and reduce hazards.
- PPE Check
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is your first line of defense. This element ensures everyone is fully equipped for the job:
- – Hard Hat: Protect your head from falling debris and impacts.
- – High-Vis Vest or Clothing: Stay visible to colleagues and equipment operators.
- – Work Gloves: Safeguard your hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemicals.
- – Ear Protection: Minimize exposure to harmful noise levels.
- – Eye Protection: Shield your eyes from dust, debris, and harmful UV rays.
- 360 Degree Vehicle Inspection
A comprehensive vehicle inspection is crucial for preventing accidents and maintaining a safe work environment:
- – Ensure You Are Parked Safely: Choose a secure location for parking.
- – Avoid Vegetation: Keep your vehicle clear of dry vegetation to reduce fire risk.
- – 360 Degree Walk-Around: Conduct a complete walk-around of your vehicle to check for potential hazards and ensure it is safe to operate.
- Documentation
Proper documentation ensures clarity, accountability, and readiness:
- – Read and Complete the Tailboard: Review and fill out the tailboard to outline the day’s tasks and potential hazards.
- – Create a Trip Sheet: Maintain a detailed log of your travel and work locations.
- – Review the Safety Checklist: Double-check all safety protocols to confirm compliance.
Why the “Circle of Safety” Matters
The “Circle of Safety” program is more than a set of safety guidelines; it’s a culture-shaping initiative aimed at fostering a proactive approach to safety. By integrating these steps into daily operations, we can:
- Reduce workplace accidents and injuries
- Enhance employee confidence and focus
- Build a stronger safety culture throughout our organization
Each Patriot General work vehicle will soon have a “Circle of Safety” reminder decal applied in a prominent place to reenforce and remind us about the principles of the program.
Join Us for the 2025 Safety Standdown Event
We invite all team members, prime contractors, subcontractors, and vendors to participate in this exciting event on February 7, 2025, at the Lakeside VFW Hall where we’ll launch the “Circle of Safety” campaign. Together, we’ll explore its key elements, learn best practices, and reinforce our commitment to ensuring a safe and secure work environment for all.
Patriot General Engineering, Inc. is dedicated to setting the gold standard in safety practices. Let’s come together to make 2025 our safest year yet—because at Patriot, safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a way of life.