Mastering Job Hazard Assessments in the Printing and Publishing Industry

In the printing and publishing sector, where machinery and chemicals are commonplace, implementing robust Job Hazard Assessments (JHAs) is critical. As an EHS specialist, I've seen firsthand how a proactive approach to JHAs can transform workplace safety. Let's dive into how you can effectively roll out JHAs in your operations.

Understanding the Printing and Publishing Environment

The printing and publishing industry is a unique beast. From high-speed presses to chemical inks and solvents, the hazards are diverse and potentially severe. A thorough JHA starts with recognizing these specific risks—everything from mechanical entrapment to chemical exposure and ergonomic strain.

Steps to Implement JHAs

Here's how you can implement JHAs in your printing and publishing operations:

1. Identify the Tasks: Begin by listing all tasks performed in your facility. For example, operating a printing press, handling inks, or performing maintenance on equipment.
2. Assess the Hazards: For each task, identify potential hazards. In printing, this might include exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or the risk of paper cuts and strains from repetitive motion.
3. Evaluate Risk: Assess the likelihood and severity of each hazard. Use tools like risk matrices to prioritize your focus areas.
4. Develop Controls: Create specific control measures. Engineering controls might include machine guards on presses, while administrative controls could involve training on proper lifting techniques.
5. Implement and Train: Roll out these controls and ensure all employees are trained. Use practical examples relevant to their daily tasks to make the training stick.
6. Monitor and Review: Regularly review JHAs to ensure they remain effective. Adjust them as new equipment or processes are introduced.

Real-World Application

In my experience, one printing company I worked with had frequent injuries from the manual handling of heavy paper rolls. After implementing JHAs, we introduced mechanical aids and ergonomic training, reducing incidents by over 70%. This example shows how JHAs, when tailored to specific industry challenges, can yield significant safety improvements.

Resources and Further Reading

For deeper insights into JHAs, consider these resources:

• The OSHA website provides comprehensive guidelines on conducting JHAs.
• The NIOSH offers research and tools specific to the printing industry.
• Industry-specific publications like Printing Industries of America often feature case studies and best practices.

Remember, the key to successful JHAs is not just in their creation but in their continuous application and refinement. As an EHS specialist, your role is pivotal in ensuring these assessments evolve with your workplace's changing needs.