The National Safety Council and other organizations across the United States observe National Safety Month during June each year.
Whether your company actively takes part in National Safety Month or not, the occasion serves as an important reminder that safety is a critical issue effecting many industries – aviation chief among them.
Safety is a pillar of the ground support industry. It keeps both workers on the ramp and passengers on the plane free of harm.
During the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in May, Nick Careen, senior vice president of airport, passenger, cargo and security at IATA, stressed the importance of people on the ramp – even at a time when aviation is becoming more automated and focused on technology. The safety of those people on the ramp is paramount.
But where does one get started? Safety information is available through a number of sources, and simply reaching out to organizers of these groups is a good first step.
For example, during the IGHC, leaders of the “We Are Safety” campaign presented their goals to the conference’s delegates.
The campaign, which was launched in 2016, is a non-profit brand that aims to increase awareness of safety culture. “We Are Safety” is being adopted by airlines, airports and ground handling agents in the United Kingdom and in other areas of Europe, and the supporters are looking to expand the initiative.
Stressing the fact that “We Are Safety” is more than a poster campaign, representatives explained the goal is to connect different working groups – for example, ground handlers, airlines and airports – to improve communication and create safer working environments as well as other benefits for all parties involved.
So why not use National Safety Month as an opportunity to reassess the way you approach your daily routine and connect with people focused on protecting the people in our industry?
What safety measures do you have in place? Are you compliant with current safety regulations? Are employees well versed in and regularly performing safe practices? Are there any steps you could take to make your operation safer?
Taking a moment to answer these questions could make daily tasks safer for people in your operation, and safety on the ramp should be the top priority.
