http://www.environeering.co.za/

Environeering, Office G6C, Ground Floor, Sunrise Park, Pinelands, Cape Town (2025)

25/09/2025

If you or anyone you know are looking for Crane Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Training, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

25/09/2025

Safety Tips When Using Cranes

Cranes are vital for construction, industrial, and infrastructure projects, but they also come with serious safety risks. That is why it is important that crane operators receive the right training, comply with safety rules, and learn how to incorporate modern technology effectively, so that accidents can be avoided. This article outlines key practices for safe crane operations, with emphasis on the importance of proper procedures and risk control.

The Importance of Crane Safety

Crane accidents can cause severe injuries, fatalities, and major financial losses. The most common dangers include falling loads, crane tip-overs, contact with power lines, and equipment failures. Strong safety measures are essential to lower these risks and keep operations running smoothly.

Essential Crane Safety Practices

1. Operator Training and Certification
Training is the first step to safe crane operation. Operators must complete certified training programs that cover equipment use, load handling, and emergency procedures. In many areas, having a valid crane operator certification is a legal requirement.

2. Conducting Pre-Operational Inspections
Before using a crane, operators should carry out a full inspection. This means checking for damages, leaks, and any mechanical issues. Critical parts such as brakes, hoists, ropes, and load indicators should always be verified to ensure the crane is safe to use.

3. Understanding Load Capacity
Overloading a crane can cause serious accidents. Operators should always follow the load chart and manufacturer’s instructions to avoid structural failure.

4. Ensuring Proper Ground Conditions
Cranes must be set up on stable, level ground. Soft or uneven surfaces increase the risk of the crane tipping over. Using outriggers and mats helps spread the weight and provides extra stability.

5. Avoiding Electrical Hazards
When working near power lines, cranes must keep a safe distance to prevent electrocution. Spotters and warning systems such as proximity alarms can assist operators in safely navigating these risks.

If you or anyone you know are looking for Crane Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Training, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

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23/09/2025

Forklift Safety

Forklifts are used in medium to high-risk workplace areas; therefore, it is important to ensure that your staff is trained properly and that your forklift vehicles and equipment are maintained in a good working condition.

Below are some valuable forklift safety tips:

1. Forklift operators must be qualified
Ensure that all staff operating forklifts have been trained properly on the equipment and possess the proper licenses to be able to operate the equipment.

2. Appropriate PPE must be worn
Forklift operators must wear the appropriate safety work wear when operating the equipment. This consists of a hard hat, safety shoes and hi-visibility jackets.

3. Examine the equipment before use
Operators should do a routine check of the equipment before driving them to make sure that the equipment is in a good working to prevent someone from getting injured. Some things you should check for are any faults in the brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast and tires.

4. Consider the surrounding environment
Whilst operating a forklift you must pay attention to and follow any work site rules and guidelines. The operator must only drive the equipment in the machinery’s designated roadways. Be sure to operate the equipment at a safe speed and use your ho**er when necessary.

5. Avoid Hazards
Steer clear of any bumps or uneven ground surfaces as well as roads with slippery conditions. Steer clear of loose ground objects because they could cause loss of control over the equipment or a load to move around. Use the horn when closing in on a corner or
doorway/entrance and around people to alert pedestrians or other forklift operators of your whereabouts to avoid any unnecessary collision. Keep a safe distance from other trucks in case they move in an unpredictable manner and make sure that you always have enough space to stop the equipment safely.

6. Ensure your load is stable and secure
Check that any loads you are carrying are stable and secure loads carefully before moving them to prevent causing any damage. It is important to tilt the load back with the forks sitting low when transporting something to increase the stability of the truck.

7. Make sure you have clear visibility
If it is needed, operate the forklift in reverse to increase visibility, except when moving up ramps. If visibility is poor do not continue driving; in some circumstances you may need a lookout helper to assist you.

8. Forklifts are for carrying loads only
Operators must not let others ride on the equipment unless another seat has been fitted safely to the forklift for a second person. If a person needs to be lifted, use only a securely attached work platform and cage and follow the appropriate operating instructions.

9. Ensure the forklift is not over-loaded
Do not use the tip of the forks as a lever to raise a heavy load. Do not push a load with the tip of the forks. Know the capacity of your forklift and any attachments being used and never exceed this capacity, because an overload can cause the rear tires to be raised off the ground which may cause the forklift to tip over.

If you or anyone you know are looking for Forklift Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Training, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

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08/09/2025

ENVIRONEERING- CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (CPUT)- EXCURSION- 05 September 2025

Environeering was asked by CPUT to take their 4th Year Environmental Health students on an excursion to the Groot Constantia Wine Estate, in order to give them a lecture and practical on Health and Safety Risk Assessments in the Workplace.

The Lecture and Practical was presented by our Brent Lawrence. They have also received an assignment to create their own Workplace Risk Assessment which will be evaluated by Environeering and will also go towards their yearend marks.

And because students are always hungry, we arranged some snacks and drinks for them.

We would like to once again thank Wendy and Jean of Groot Constantia for allowing us to do this excursion with the students on their premises. This is our fifth year doing the practical and the students have learnt so much through the wine farm's processes.

It's always an honor passing on knowledge and experience to the next generation of Environmental Health Practitioners. We would also like to thank Dr. Roslynn Baaitjies, the CPUT Occupational Health and Safety Lecturer, for allowing Environeering to guest lecture her students for the past five years.

For more info on us, please contact: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

28/08/2025

OFFICE SAFETY TIPS

With their climate control, soft chairs, and armrests, office environments don’t conjure up thoughts of workplace hazards like, say, construction sites.

It is true that office workers are at a lower risk for workplace injuries than most, however, it is still important to talk about office safety with your employees.

Here are some office safety tips for you to follow:

1. Make sure your desk setup is ergonomic
To maintain a neutral posture, your head should be centered above your neck and shoulders, your wrists should be flat, and your elbows should be resting comfortably at your side. If your feet only touch the ground when you lean forward, use a footrest.

2. Take regular breaks to get up and move around
Sitting all day puts office workers at risk for numerous health problems, therefore it is best to take regular breaks to move around and stretch your muscles.

3. When the floor is slippery put a “slippery floor” sign by the wet area
Winter slips and falls in parking lots and offices are extremely common. To avoid them, walk like a penguin by walking with a flat foot and by taking short, slow steps. It is also important to wear sensible footwear and to only carry what you can handle.

4. Use a headset for prolonged or frequent phone use
Cradling the phone between your shoulder and ear can cause neck and back pain, so rather use a headset to avoid hurting yourself.

5. Keep your workplace tidy
Clean up spills immediately and avoid using liquids around electrical devices. Keep aisles free of clutter and tie up or secure cords so that they do not pose a tripping hazard.

6. Don’t let electrical cords create a fire risk
Avoid running electrical cords under carpets or through windows and doorways and do not fasten them with unapproved devices, such as staples.

7. Know your office emergency procedures
Make sure you know what to do in the event of a fire, a storm, a violent intruder, a medical problem, or any other emergency.

8. Have a Health and Safety team
Have Health and Safety Representatives, Fire Fighting Team members, and First Aiders trained to keep the Health and Safety standards of the office in place and to handle emergency situations.

For more info, please contact us: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

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20/08/2025

WORKING AT HEIGHTS SAFETY TIPS

Working at heights can result in numerous injuries like breaking bones, disabilities occurring, and even death, which can all occur when falling from a height. That is why it is important to have a safety system in place when working at heights such as on ladders, on the roof, on top of buildings, etc.

Below are some safety tips to help you when you are working at heights:

1. Plan your job first, don’t just start working at heights without mapping out the specifics.

2. Make sure you have the proper equipment: ladders, harnesses, lifelines, etc.

3. Inspect your equipment to make sure it is safe and that everything is in proper working condition.

4. Use proper safety clothing and equipment: overalls, safety boots, hard hats, harnesses, lanyards, safety lines, etc.

5. Have a Fall Protection Plan specific to the site: plan how you will do the job, check for any uneven surfaces that might topple your ladder/scaffolding, etc.

6. Train your staff on Working at Heights so that they know the correct safety procedures to minimize the risk of an injury occurring.

7. Do not work on heights during bad weather such as strong winds, ice on the roof, rain, etc.

8. Have a rescue plan in place, in case someone falls off the roof or a ladder and is dangling in the air in their harness.

9. Have a First Aider on site to take care of staff that might have fallen and injured themselves.

10. Always have two or more people on the roof or at the height, if one person falls then the others will know about it and they can call for help.

11. Have everyone wear a whistle or radio so that if someone falls off a secluded part of the roof, they will be able to alert their colleagues.

If you or anyone you know are looking for Working at Heights Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

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13/08/2025

SAFETY TIPS FOR RESTAURANT PLAY AREAS FOR YOUR KIDS

A child's safety is always the foremost thing on a parent's mind. Whether it's making sure they get to school safely or that they have the correct shoes to protect their feet.

Safety tips for playing safely in restaurant play areas:

1. Take a look at the play area.
If you see anything (broken toys, etc.) that bothers you, call management and have them fix the problem.

2. Keep an eye on your kids.
If there are strangers hanging around the play areas making you uncomfortable, call management or security.

3. Shoes are important!
Especially when visiting an outdoors restaurant. Harmful materials like glass can be hidden by grass and sand. So, make sure your child’s shoes are kept in a safe place.

4. Wash up after playing.
Wet wipes or a good scrub in the bathroom is essential after playing in public places. Germs can easily be picked up by kids in this way.

5. Be prepared
If you are driving long distances make sure you know the location of the nearest hospital and that you have a first aid kit available in your car.

For info on any of our courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok ☺️

16/07/2025

Social Media Safety Tips

With so many of us using social media today, sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn make us the perfect targets for scams.

Here are a few tips to stay safe on social media:

1. Use a strong password. The longer your password is, the more secure it will be.

2. Use different passwords for each of your social media accounts.

3. If the option is available, set up the security answers on your social media accounts.

4. If you have social media apps on your phone, be sure your device is password protected so that not just anybody can access your accounts.

5. Be selective when it comes to friend requests. If you don’t know the person, rather don’t accept their request, because it could be a fake account.

6. Click on links with caution. Social media accounts are regularly hacked, so look out for language or content that does not sound like something your friend would post, before clicking on a link.

7. Be careful about what you share. Don’t reveal sensitive or personal information about yourself or anyone else on the internet. For example, your home address, financial information, your phone number, etc. The more you post about yourself, the easier it is to have your information stolen.

8. Become familiar with the privacy policies of the different social media channels you use and customize your privacy settings to control who can see what.

9. Protect your computer by installing an antivirus software to safeguard your information. Also ensure that your browser, operating system, and software are always kept up to date.

10. Last but not least, remember to log off when you are done.

For info on any of our courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊

14/07/2025

Environeering training.

Some early Monday morning training.

Brent giving Working at Heights Safety Training in Elgin, and Chavon giving Food and Hygiene Safety Training at a food production factory.

Contact us if your company needs any type of Health and Safety Training.

brent@environeering.co.za
chavon@environeering.co.za
beverley@environeering.co.za

01/07/2025

Preventing Cross-Contamination

Cross-contamination is the physical transfer of harmful bacteria from one person, object, or place to another. It is a major contributor to foodborne illnesses, so preventing it is essential when handling, storing, and preparing food.

Here are some helpful tips on how to prevent cross-contamination:

1. When shopping, it's important to separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other items in your grocery cart. Place these products in plastic bags to stop their juices from dripping onto other foods. At checkout and when packing grocery bags, try to keep raw items apart from ready-to-eat products to avoid contamination.

2. In the refrigerator, raw meat, poultry, and seafood should be stored in containers or sealed plastic bags to prevent their juices from leaking onto other foods. Since raw juices often carry harmful bacteria, this step is critical. Eggs should be kept in their original cartons and refrigerated as soon as possible.

3. During food preparation, cleanliness is key. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before and after handling food, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or touching pets. Wipe kitchen surfaces with hot, soapy water using paper towels or clean cloths, and launder the cloths regularly in the hot cycle. Always clean cutting boards, dishes, and countertops between preparing different foods.

4. Use clean cutting boards, and if possible, dedicate one board for fresh produce and another for raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Cutting boards that become worn or have hard-to-clean grooves should be replaced to reduce the risk of contamination.

5. When marinating food, always do so in the refrigerator rather than on the countertop. Any marinade used on raw meat, poultry, or seafood should not be reused on cooked food unless it is brought to a boil beforehand.

6. Fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under running tap water to remove visible dirt. Discard the outer leaves of heads of lettuce or cabbage. As bacteria thrive on cut surfaces, avoid contaminating produce during slicing, and don’t leave cut fruit or vegetables at room temperature for extended periods.

7. Finally, when serving food, always use clean plates and utensils. Never place cooked food back onto the same plate or cutting board that held raw food, as this can easily transfer bacteria.

If you or anyone you know are looking for Food and Hygiene Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊

26/06/2025

Food Safety When Shopping

Even if food producers and sellers follow all the food safety laws, your actions after purchase can affect the safety and quality of the food. Once you buy food, it's your responsibility to handle it safely.

Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people are more vulnerable to foodborne illnesses, including:

• Pregnant women
• Young children
• The elderly
• People with chronic illnesses

Take extra care when buying, storing, and preparing food for these groups.

Smart Food Choices While Shopping

Poor handling, packaging, or storage can pose risks to food safety and quality. To stay safe, shop at clean, well-maintained stores and only buy food from trusted suppliers.

Avoid purchasing:

• Cans or containers that are dented, swollen, or leaking
• Items with damaged or broken packaging
• Cracked or dirty eggs
• Refrigerated or frozen foods that have been left out
• Moldy or dirty products
• Ready-to-eat food left uncovered on counters
• Hot foods that aren’t steaming hot
• Any product you’re unsure about

Be Cautious with High-Risk Foods
Certain foods are more likely to carry harmful bacteria. These high-risk foods include:

• Raw and cooked meats (especially chicken and mince), and dishes made with them (e.g., curries, lasagna)
• Dairy products and desserts (like custard and cheesecake)
• Eggs and egg-based foods (like mousse)
• Smallgoods (ham, salami)
• Seafood and seafood-based dishes (salads, stews, fish balls)
• Cooked rice and pasta
• Prepared salads (coleslaw, pasta/rice salads)
• Cut fruit salads
• Ready-to-eat foods with any of the above ingredients (sandwiches, pizzas, rolls)

These should be kept out of the temperature danger zone which is between 5 °C and 60 °C. Always store these foods below 5 °C or above 60 °C. To reduce the risk pack high-risk foods properly and take them home immediately after purchasing them.

Always Check the Date on Labels
Before buying perishable food, check the date:

• Use-by date: The food should be eaten by this date. It must not be sold after this date.
• Best before date: The food is still safe to eat after this date, but quality may decline.

Plan Your Shopping Trip for Safety
Here are some helpful tips:

• Pick up chilled and frozen items last.
• Buy hot foods (like rotisserie chickens) toward the end of your shop and keep them separate from cold foods.
• Prevent raw meat, chicken, or fish juices from dripping onto other products.
• If buying from a deli, check that staff use different utensils for different food types.
• Wash reusable shopping bags regularly, especially if they’ve been exposed to raw food liquids.

Safe Food Transport

If you buy frozen, chilled, or hot food, get it home quickly. On hot days or longer trips (over 30 minutes), use an insulated bag or cooler to keep food at the right temperature. Once you’re home, immediately store cold and frozen food in the fridge or freezer.
By following these simple shopping and handling tips, you help keep your food safe and reduce the risk of food poisoning for yourself and others.

The 7th of June was world food safety day. If you would like to find out more about it, you can follow this link: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-food-safety-day/2025

If you or anyone you know are looking for Food and Hygiene Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za /
chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊

25/06/2025

Food and Hygiene Safety Training

Why Is Food Safety and Hygiene Training Important?

According to the World Health Organization, foodborne illnesses are a serious public health concern globally. In South Africa, outbreaks of foodborne illness, such as the 2017–2018 listeriosis outbreak, have underscored the need for strong food safety and hygiene standards. Proper food safety training helps employees understand how to handle and prepare food safely to prevent contamination and protect public health.

What Is Food Safety?

Food safety involves the essential practices and procedures required to ensure that food is safe to eat. These include proper handling, preparation, processing, storage, and distribution of food. By following food safety measures, businesses can reduce the risk of contamination and prevent foodborne illness or injuries.

Types of Food Contaminants:

Food can be contaminated in several ways:

1. Biological contaminants: such as bacteria, viruses, moulds, and parasites.

2. Physical contaminants: such as hair, metal shavings, and glass.

3. Chemical contaminants: including pesticides, cleaning agents, or food additives used incorrectly.

4. Allergenic contaminants: such as milk, eggs, nuts, soy, and other common allergens.

Do You Need Food Hygiene Training?

Under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act No. 54 of 1972) and related municipal health regulations, all individuals who work with food in South Africa must be trained in food safety practices appropriate to their role. Municipal by-laws also require that food premises obtain a Certificate of Acceptability (CoA), which is only issued if food handlers are properly trained and competent in hygiene and food safety standards.

Legal Requirements for Food Safety and Hygiene in South Africa
Several laws and regulations govern food safety in South Africa:

1. Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972

This Act regulates the manufacture, labelling, and sale of food to ensure it is safe for consumption. It prohibits selling food that is contaminated, unfit for consumption, or mislabeled.

2. Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, the Transport of Food and Related Matters (R638 of 2018)

These regulations require that:

2.1. All food premises must have a valid Certificate of Acceptability.

2.2. Food handlers are trained in hygienic practices.

2.3. A food safety system based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is implemented and maintained.

3. Consumer Protection Act, 2008

This Act requires that food products are safe, correctly labelled, and not misleading. It gives consumers the right to fair and responsible services and to be protected from hazardous goods.

4. Municipal Health By-Laws

Local municipalities (e.g., City of Cape Town) may enforce additional requirements, such as routine inspections and hygiene certifications.

Benefits of Food Hygiene and Safety Training

1. Prevent Foodborne Illnesses

Most foodborne illnesses result from improper food handling. Training ensures that employees understand safe practices and how to minimize health risks to customers.

2. Reduce Food Waste

Trained staff are better at managing storage, temperature control, and stock rotation, which helps minimize spoilage and saves money.

3. Improve Staff Efficiency

Employees who know what to do can work more effectively, handle food safely, and avoid costly mistakes.

4. Create a Positive Workplace Culture

When staff feel competent and understand the value of their role in maintaining food safety, morale and responsibility improve.

5. Build a Strong Business Reputation

Consistent food safety practices lead to cleaner operations, better customer reviews, and trust in your brand. This can lead to more business and increased revenue.

Food safety and hygiene training is not only a legal requirement in South Africa—it’s a critical investment in public health, your staff, and your business. With proper training, food handlers can confidently serve safe, high-quality food, reduce risk, and protect both your customers and your reputation.

The 7th of June was world food safety day. If you would like to find out more about it, you can follow this link: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-food-safety-day/2025

If you or anyone you know are looking for Food and Hygiene Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za /
chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊

19/06/2025

KITCHEN SAFETY TIPS

History has shown that minor and major incidents can occur in the safety of your own home especially in the Kitchen. Below are some
Kitchen Safety Tips to practice in your home:

1. Before you begin roll up long sleeves, tie back long hair, and remove loose clothing that might get in the way or catch on something.

2. Wash your hands and dry them well. Wet hands can be slippery.

3. If you can't quite reach the countertop, use a sturdy stool or wooden step to help.

4. Keep cabinet doors and drawers closed so you won't bump into them.

5. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Wet spots can be slippery.

6. Always use oven mitts to handle food on the stove, in the oven or microwave, and under the broiler.

7. When working with pots on the stove, be sure to hold the handle while stirring to prevent the pot from slipping off the burner.

8. Always pick up knives by their handle and do not point them at anyone. Be sure to only use a knife when an adult is close by and with permission.

9. Keep electrical cords away from the stovetop, oven, and sink.

10. Before leaving the kitchen, check that the oven and burners are all turned off.

11. If you burn yourself, tell an adult immediately.

12. Don't put knives or other sharp objects in a sink full of water. Someone could reach in and get hurt.

13. Never put water on a cooking fire - it could make the fire bigger. Call for an adult to help and use baking soda or flour to put the fire out.

14. Don't put cooked food on an unwashed plate or cutting board that held raw food. Always use a clean plate.

15. Never add water to a pan with hot oil in it. It could splatter and burn someone.

16. Keep paper towels, dish towels, and potholders away from the stovetop so they don't catch on fire.

The 7th of June was world food safety day. If you would like to find out more about it, you can follow this link: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-food-safety-day/2025

If you or anyone you know are looking for Food and Hygiene Safety Training or any other Health and Safety Courses, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za /
chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 🤩

17/06/2025

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the Workplace

In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993:

1. Employers must conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards within the workplace and determine the appropriate PPE required for employees when working in that environment.

2. All necessary PPE must be provided to employees by the employer free of charge.

3. Employees must receive proper training on the use and care of the PPE provided.

4. Clear signage, compliant with SANS standards, must be displayed at the entrance to any area where specific PPE is required.

5. No employee or visitor may enter a designated PPE zone without wearing the required protective equipment.

6. PPE must not be tampered with or altered in any way.

If you or anyone you know are looking for more information on the necessary PPE required for different work areas or any other Health and Safety matter, please do not hesitate to contact us at: brent@environeering.co.za / chavon@environeering.co.za / beverley@environeering.co.za

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊

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