Environeering

20/11/2025

Types of Safety Inspections and What They Include

Safety inspections are an essential part of maintaining a safe workplace. They help identify hazards early, ensure equipment is operating correctly, and prevent accidents before they happen. These inspections can range from simply restocking first aid kits to evaluating critical machinery components. Below is an overview of common types of inspections and what they typically involve.

1. Failure-Finding Inspections
These inspections focus on checking back-up or protective devices that only activate when a primary system fails. Because these systems cannot be tested under normal conditions, technicians must simulate failure scenarios to confirm that safety devices—such as emergency shutoffs or backup alarms—are functioning properly.

2. Lighting Inspections
Proper lighting is essential for visibility and safety. Lighting inspections typically include:

• Checking bulbs regularly and replacing them in groups for efficiency.
• Inspecting controls, filters, and baffles on transformer systems.
• Checking cables, hardware, and gaskets on exterior lights.

Good lighting reduces accidents and improves productivity, so these inspections should be done frequently.

3. Electrical Inspections
Electrical inspections help prevent fires, electrocution, and equipment failure. Typical tasks include:

• Replacing batteries in smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, flashlights, and testing equipment.
• Checking timers, photocells, and other electrical controls.
• Cleaning exhaust fans and confirming safe operation.

Regular inspections keep electrical systems reliable and reduce the risk of unexpected failures.

4. HVAC Inspections
Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems affect air quality and comfort. HVAC inspections involve:

• Inspecting and cleaning air intakes, filters, motors, and ductwork.
• Checking condensation pans for proper drainage.
• Securing loose panels, guards, and hardware.
• Testing safety equipment and system controls.

Routine HVAC maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and improves indoor air quality.

5. Building Interior Inspections
Interior spaces must be checked to ensure they are safe for daily use. These inspections include:

• Checking walls, floors, and ceilings for damage, leaks, or deterioration.
• Removing hazards such as tripping risks or clutter.
• Ensuring proper operation of doors, locks, and emergency exits.
• Inspecting restrooms for plumbing or sanitation issues.
• Testing alarms and notification systems.

Well-maintained interiors reduce injuries and improve workplace safety.

6. Building Exterior Inspections
The outside of a facility is just as important as the inside. Exterior inspections include:

• Checking windows, walls, doors, and paint for damage.
• Inspecting roofs, drains, and gutters.
• Assessing sidewalks, driveways, steps, and railings for cracks or hazards.
• Checking surrounding areas for debris, overgrown vegetation, or fallen branches.

These inspections help prevent slips, trips, falls, and structural damage.

7. Plumbing Inspections
Plumbing systems should be inspected at least once a year. These inspections include:

• Checking for leaks, unusual noises, or visible damage.
• Lubricating pumps, boosters, condensers, and circulation systems.
• Fire-testing boilers and water heaters.
• Inspecting sewage systems and sump pumps and replacing them if necessary.

Proper plumbing maintenance prevents flooding, water damage, and equipment failures.

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

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12/11/2025

Hand Protection Best Practices

Your hands are one of your most valuable tools on the job. They allow you to perform tasks, operate equipment, and handle materials safely and efficiently. Because we rely on them so much, it’s important to always protect them. While it’s impossible to prevent every possible injury, following safe work practices can greatly reduce the risk of cuts, burns, crush injuries, and other hand-related accidents.

1. Keep Your Hands Out of the Line of Fire
Whenever possible, use tools or equipment designed to keep your hands away from moving parts or cutting edges. For example, when operating a table saw, use a push stick instead of your hands to guide materials through the blade. This small precaution can make a big difference in preventing serious injuries.

2. Use the Right Cutting Tools
Avoid using knives or tools with exposed fixed blades. Instead, use a safety knife that has built-in safety features - such as a retractable blade that automatically pulls back when not in use.
These tools limit how much of the blade is exposed, reducing the risk of accidental cuts. Always cut away from your body and others and keep your cutting area clean and stable.

3. Never Place Your Hand Where You Can’t See It
One of the simplest but most important rules is: never reach into areas you can’t see.
Hidden hazards such as sharp edges, hot surfaces, or moving parts could cause serious injury.
Before reaching into containers, machines, or tight spaces, inspect them first or use a tool to move or check what’s inside.

4. Always Wear the Correct Gloves
Different jobs require different types of gloves. Wearing the wrong kind can make the task more dangerous.

For example:
- Cut-resistant gloves help protect against sharp tools or materials.
- Heat-resistant gloves are needed when handling hot objects.
- Chemical-resistant gloves protect your skin from hazardous substances.

Make sure your gloves fit properly and are in good condition - damaged or worn-out gloves won’t provide full protection. Also, remember that gloves have limitations; they can reduce your grip or feel, so always work cautiously.

5. De-energize Equipment Before Working on It
Never perform maintenance or repairs on equipment that is still powered or energized.
Always follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to make sure machinery cannot start unexpectedly while you are working on it. This step is crucial in preventing electrical shocks, crush injuries, or amputations.

6. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Worksites can be busy, noisy, and full of activity. Stay alert and be aware of what others are doing nearby.
Someone else’s movement, equipment uses, or dropped object can put your hands at risk if you’re not paying attention. Clear communication and awareness help prevent accidents.

7. Report and Treat Injuries Immediately
If you injure your hand, report it right away to your supervisor or foreman, no matter how minor it seems. Even small cuts or scrapes can become serious if left untreated. Seek medical attention immediately if needed - early treatment helps prevent infection and long-term damage. Reporting injuries promptly also helps your workplace identify hazards and improve safety for everyone.

Your hands are essential treat them with care and respect so they can continue to help you work safely and effectively every day.

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

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 😊🌷

04/11/2025

VACANCY: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER (INTERN)

We have a vacancy available for an Intern Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) at our company.

Work Hours: 40 hours per week

Requirements:

An Environmental Health Practitioner Qualification.
We are pronominally an Occupational Health and Safety company, so experience in this field would be an advantage to you.
Will be trained to be proficient as a trainer and public speaking.
Training on Auditing and Reporting skills will be obtained.
Must be willing to travel nationwide and internationally.
Laptop will be provided.
Petrol, cell phone, and internet allowance provided.
Basic Conditions of Employment Applies.

CV and qualifications to be sent to (please state the “Intern Environmental Health Practitioner” in the email subject line):

info@environeering.co.za

04/11/2025

VACANCY: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER

We have a vacancy available for an Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) at our company.

Work Hours: 40 hours per week

Requirements:

An Environmental Health Practitioner Qualification.
Experience in Occupational Health and Safety is essential.
To be proficient as a trainer and public speaking.
Auditing and Reporting skills essential.
Must be willing to travel nationwide and internationally.
Laptop will be provided.
Own Transport essential.
Petrol, cell phone, and internet allowance provided.
Basic Conditions of Employment Applies.

CV and qualifications to be sent to (please state the “Environmental Health Practitioner” in the email subject line):

info@environeering.co.za

30/10/2025

30/10/2025

Construction Dust Safety Tips

Before starting any construction project, it’s important to understand and manage the dust hazards that come with certain building materials and tasks. Dust exposure can cause serious health problems, so taking steps to control it is essential for keeping workers safe.

What Affects Dust Levels?
Several factors can increase the amount of dust in the air:

• Tasks: The more powerful or high-energy the work, the more dust is created. Tools like saws, grinders, and sandblasters can produce large amounts of dust very quickly.

• Work area: Dust builds up more easily in enclosed spaces, but it can still be a problem outdoors. Always take precautions, no matter where you’re working.

• Time: The longer a task takes, the higher the risk of dust exposure.

• Frequency: Doing the same dusty job day after day increases the risk even more.

Dust Safety Best Practices
Follow these key steps to control and reduce dust exposure on site.

1. Stop or Reduce Dust at the Source

Before starting work, look for ways to prevent or minimize dust production. Some simple changes can make a big difference:

• Use pre-cut or correctly sized materials to avoid extra cutting.

• Choose silica-free materials or abrasives whenever possible.

• Use less powerful tools—for example, a block splitter instead of a cut-off saw.

• Try alternative methods, such as direct fastening systems, that create less dust.

2. Control Dust in the Air

If it’s not possible to completely stop dust from forming, the next step is to control it. There are two main methods:

• Water Suppression: Using water to dampen materials can prevent dust clouds from forming. Make sure enough water is applied evenly and continuously while the work is happening - just spraying once isn’t enough.

• On-Tool Extraction:
On-tool extraction systems capture dust right where it’s produced. These systems usually include a tool attachment, extraction unit, and tubing. A local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system is a good example - it fits directly onto the tool and removes dust at the source.

3. Wear the Right Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)
If dust levels can’t be reduced enough with water or extraction, wearing RPE is essential. This equipment helps protect your lungs from harmful dust particles.

When choosing RPE:

• Make sure it’s adequate for the type and amount of dust you’re exposed to.

• Look for the Assigned Protection Factor (APF) on the mask:
- For most construction dust, an APF of 20 is recommended (the mask filters out 95% of dust from the air you breathe).
- For some types of wood dust, an APF of 10 may be suitable.

To be effective, RPE must be:

• Suitable for the job – Disposable or half masks can be uncomfortable for long periods, so choose the right type for the task.

• Compatible – It should fit properly with your other PPE (like helmets or goggles).

• Fitted correctly – Masks should form a tight seal on your face.

• Used properly – Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Also, be aware of the type of material you’re working with - different woods and construction materials may create dusts that require different levels of protection.

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

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok ☺️😊

29/10/2025

Good day.

Our client, who is a Waste Management Company, has available a vacancy for a Safety Officer.

Work Hours: Full time (Mon-Friday, 8am to 5pm)
 
Requirements:

Qualifications (one of the following is a requirement):

               Environmental Health Practitioner

               NEBOSH

               SAMTRAC

Experience in Occupational Health and Safety essential, as well as general experience in EHP/ Health and Safety work.

You are required to be a member of SAIOSH.

Must be proficient as a trainer and public speaking.

Auditing and Reporting skills essential.

Must be willing to travel to areas like Khayelitsha, Langa, Philippi, etc.

Driver’s License needed- a company car will be provided.

A Laptop will be provided.

Petrol, cell phone, and internet allowance provided.

Basic Salary: R26 000 (Basic Conditions of Employment applies)

CV and qualifications to be sent to:
info@environeering.co.za

Thank you.

29/10/2025

Good day.

Our client, who is a Waste Management Company, has available a vacancy for a Safety Officer.

Work Hours: Full time (Mon-Friday, 8am to 5pm)

Requirements:

Qualifications (one of the following is a requirement):
Environmental Health Practitioner

NEBOSH

SAMTRAC

Experience in Occupational Health and Safety essential, as well as general experience in EHP/ Health and Safety work.
You are required to be a member of SAIOSH.
Must be proficient as a trainer and public speaking.
Auditing and Reporting skills essential.
Must be willing to travel to areas like Khayelitsha, Langa, Philippi, etc.
Driver’s License needed- a company car will be provided.
A Laptop will be provided.
Petrol, cell phone, and internet allowance provided.
Basic Salary: R26 000 (Basic Conditions of Employment applies)

CV and qualifications to be sent to:

info@environeering.co.za

Thank you.

23/10/2025

Workplace Fatigue Management Tips

Feeling tired at work can affect your concentration, decision-making, and overall safety. Managing fatigue is important for maintaining both your health and productivity. Here are some simple, effective ways to reduce fatigue and stay alert on the job.

1. Take Regular, Purposeful Breaks
Regular breaks help your body and mind recover throughout the day. Try to step away from your workstation for a few minutes every hour to stretch your legs, move around, and rest your eyes.
Avoid waiting until you feel completely drained - shorter, more frequent breaks are more effective. During your breaks, do something enjoyable or relaxing, like listening to music or taking a short walk. You’ll return to work refreshed and more focused.

2. Eat Nutritious Foods and Stay Hydrated
The food you eat has a big impact on your energy levels. Choose meals and snacks that provide long-lasting energy, such as:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Whole-grain bread or cereals
• Yogurt or other high-protein foods

Avoid heavy or sugary meals that cause energy crashes.
Also, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps you maintain your energy, focus, and proper body temperature.

3. Manage Stress and Anxiety
Stress can quickly drain your energy and make fatigue worse. When your body releases too much of the stress hormone cortisol, you may start to feel tense, tired, or helpless.
To manage this, do something calming every day — such as yoga, reading, journaling, or going for a walk. Taking time to relax helps your mind and body recharge.
If you’re struggling with ongoing anxiety or stress, consider speaking with a counsellor or therapist for additional support.

4. Identify the Causes of Your Fatigue
Before you can fix fatigue, it helps to understand what’s causing it. Try keeping a short fatigue journal for a few days — write down how much sleep you’re getting, what you’re eating, how stressed you feel, and when you feel tired.
This can help you identify patterns and make small lifestyle changes that improve your energy and mood.

5. Establish a Healthy Sleep Routine
Quality sleep is the foundation of fatigue management. Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep each night. Try to:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
• Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable
• Avoid using your phone, laptop, or TV before bed — blue light from screens reduces melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep
• Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle stretching, before bedtime

Good sleep habits can help reset your body clock and keep you feeling more alert during the day.

6. Reduce Workplace Noise
Constant noise can make you feel tense and mentally drained. Employers can help by:

• Soundproofing noisy areas
• Separating noisy equipment from workspaces
• Providing earplugs or hearing protection when needed
• Maintaining office equipment to reduce unnecessary noise

A quieter environment supports better concentration and less fatigue.

7. Support for Managers and Teams
Fatigue management isn’t just an individual effort — it’s also a workplace responsibility. Employers can help by:

• Creating fair work schedules that allow for rest
• Conducting fatigue assessments to ensure employees are fit for duty
• Encouraging open communication about tiredness and stress

Organizations that actively manage fatigue often see fewer accidents, higher morale, and better performance.

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

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok ☺️

21/10/2025

Noise Control at Work

Controlling noise in the workplace is important for protecting employees’ hearing and improving their comfort and productivity. While a noise control engineer can provide technical help, it’s also valuable to involve the employees who work in the noisy areas. They know the equipment and processes best and often have practical ideas to reduce noise.

Step 1: Measure Workplace Noise

Before you can fix noise problems, you first need to measure and understand them. Start by completing a noise hazard assessment. Measure sound levels in different parts of the workplace and during various tasks. This helps identify:

• Which areas are the loudest
• Which workers are most at risk
• Where to focus noise control efforts

Once this data is collected, a more detailed survey can be done to find the main noise sources and decide on the best solutions.

Step 2: Buy Quiet Equipment

It’s always better to prevent noise before it starts. The “Buy Quiet” approach means choosing machines, tools, and processes that are designed to make less noise. When buying new equipment or replacing old ones, check for models that are quieter. It’s usually cheaper and more effective to reduce noise during design or purchase than to fix it later.

Step 3: Identify the Noisiest Areas

Next, determine which noise sources are the most harmful or affect the most workers. It might seem logical to fix the loudest machine first, but sometimes reducing noise in busy work areas where many employees spend time can make a bigger overall difference. Start with the most practical and cost-effective solutions - small changes can often make a noticeable improvement.

Step 4: Choose Noise Control Options

To effectively reduce noise, you may need a combination of engineering and administrative controls.

Engineering controls: These involve changing the equipment or environment to reduce noise. Examples include:

• Installing barriers or enclosures around noisy machines
• Using sound-absorbing materials
• Adding vibration dampers or isolators

Administrative controls: These involve changing how work is done. For example:

• Limiting the amount of time employees spend in noisy areas
• Rotating workers between quiet and noisy jobs
• Scheduling loud tasks when fewer people are around

Both methods can work together to keep noise exposure under control.

Step 5: Check Feasibility

Before deciding on a noise control solution, consider both the technical and financial aspects.

Ask yourself:
• Will this solution reduce noise levels enough to make a real difference?
• How much will it cost to install and maintain?
• Will it affect work processes or productivity?

In some cases, it may be more practical to combine moderate noise control measures with a hearing conservation program (like providing hearing protection and regular hearing tests).

Step 6: Evaluate the Results

Once noise controls are in place, measure the noise levels again to check how effective they are. Continue to monitor the controls over time, since materials can wear out and become less effective. Also, whenever new equipment or processes are introduced, review how they might affect existing noise levels and controls.

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

Please follow us on Instagram and on TikTok 🤩🥰

16/10/2025

Environeering Health and Safety Training

Our Brent Lawrence is currently in Uganda serving one of our clients in the city of Kampala.

Amongst our services we offer is making sure that all staff receive relevant Health and Safety Training. Our most popular training course is called the "General Health and Safety Training for All Employees". It's an hour long course informing staff of the duties as employees in terms of health and safety, as well as other topics like fire safety, electrical safety, stacking and storage, how to lift up articles, safety awareness, hazards and risks, incidents, and many more.

For more info on the training, or for any other of our services please contact: brent@environeering.co.za, beverley@environeering.co.za

07/10/2025

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