We’re proud of our safety record
Since Nashville Area Habitat began building in 1985, our injuries have consisted of mostly a hammer and thumb meeting or simple splinters.
Safety is extremely important to everyone involved with the Habitat program around the world. Accidents can be costly in pain and stress to the injured, costly in dollars and time and at the very least, disruptive. Please remember 99 percent of safety is pure common sense and attitude.
Every Volunteer is a Safety Leader
Safety is based on knowledge, skill, caution and an attitude of care and concern for everyone. Every volunteer on a Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity site becomes a safety leader the moment they arrive. Since Habitat work crews normally have a high proportion of inexperienced people, everyone must pay particular attention to their safety and the safety of others on the build site.
Supervisors on Site (S.O.S)
Our Supervisors on Site, or S.O.S. as they are called by Nashville Area Habitat, are skilled volunteers who work with our construction staff to train and supervise our volunteers. They teach the correct and proper procedures for performing each task during the build.
Safety Coordinators
We recommend that our sponsors have one person as the designated Safety Coordinator for the job site for each day. The Safety Coordinator’s primary responsibility is to watch for safe working conditions and enforce safety rules.
Guidelines for a Safe Build
- Be honest about your comfort level. There is no need to be a hero on a Habitat build. If the thought of working at heights bothers you, stay off the roof.
- Think about your task. If you are uncertain about how to accomplish your task or how to operate a tool or piece of equipment, ask a supervisor.
- Concentrate on the task at hand. Avoid distractions.
- Inspect all power tools, hand tools and ladders. If any unsafe tools or conditions come to your attention contact the supervisor immediately.