Army Maintenance Safety

Safety in the Army is paramount. Army maintenance officers and NCOs start every workday with a safety briefing. While this always draws groans from soldiers, the procedure better ensures a safe maintenance environment. Working with vehicles and equipment is dangerous, and the Army has mandated various requirements to minimize the hazards per industry standards.

Risk Assessment

• Safety reminders are everywhere.

  Before starting any project, managers conduct a short study that takes such factors as location, weather, experience of personnel and type of equipment into consideration. This produces a numerical risk potential for the operation.

Risk Reduction

• A graphic sign emphasizes safety.

  If the assessment shows risk factors are too high, managers take steps to minimize potential dangers before work begins. This might include the use of extra safety gear or a change of venue.

Training

• Safety training is an everyday occurrence,

  Leaders train soldiers every day, both to remind them about safe, tried-and-true methods for each familiar task, and to acquaint them with new equipment, information and techniques. New operations are never started without a safety review.

Soldier Awareness

• Unit bulletin boards include safety information.

  Soldiers are trained to watch for problems and report them immediately. Incentives and awards are presented regularly to encourage compliance. Frequent inspections by NCOs and officers further guarantee safe maintenance operations.

Accident Investigation

• Investigators review facts in an accident.

  After any accident, a formal inquiry is immediately initiated. Leaders in the chain of command meet with safety personnel and witnesses to investigate the incident and assess damages. The committee draws conclusions and makes decisions to help prevent another occurrence.