Safety Day Event Summary

EFL’s Annual Safety Day returned to Camouflage Paintball on Tuesday 8th August 2023, where we were joined by more than 100 employees, contractors, members of our supply chain, and industry experts. The aim of the day each year is to provide teams with the opportunity to refresh knowledge, ask questions, learn a new skill, and have some fun whilst doing so, all in the name of developing our Safety Culture.

Upon arrival to site individuals where split into 6 teams and issued a timetable for the day. During sign in, each team was randomly allocated a team leader. The timetable guided teams between 7 varied workshops which were carefully curated by the EFL team to include something for everyone, at any level. Each workshop lasted 30 minutes, and a total of 180 hours of practical learning was delivered across the day.

The event was fully catered, and began with a welcome speech from EFL Director Patrick Hayes, which included a site briefing and review of the event risk assessment. After breakfast, the groups gathered into their teams and made their way to their first workshop. The morning consisted of 4 workshops between 0930 and 1200, followed by a presentation from The Lighthouse Club before stopping for lunch at 1230. During lunch, we were joined by event sponsors Forst, who were on hand to speak to attendees about their latest products, and answer questions. We were also joined by Arbortec who hosted a fantastic free raffle for attendees.

After lunch, teams returned to their timetable and visited a further 2 workshops in the afternoon. At the end of the day, all teams came together for a closing meeting which included prize giving, feedback forms, gift bags, and sign out.

WORKSHOPS

Aerial Rescue, Hosted by Gil Laidlaw (ArbSystem)

Focused on recovering an unconscious casualty, both experienced climbers and first timers had the opportunity to compete in a climbing competition, in a relaxed and encouraging environment. For many attendees, it was their first time trying their hand at climbing and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

First Aid, Hosted by Chris Stamp (Altonian)

This years First Aid workshop focused on the typical injuries sustained when a person falls from height. Teams were taught how to complete a comprehensive top to toe survey on a casualty, along with how carry out a log roll when dealing with suspected spinal injuries.

Introduction to Censite, Hosted by Henry Silverwood

We were joined by Henry from CenSite who introduced employees and contractors to the CenSite system, including how to fill out forms, complete briefings, and provided an insight to the planning processes. This is in preparation for EFL migrating to the CenSite system by the end of 2023.

Dynamic Risk Assessments, Hosted by John McKenna

Teams where divided into pairs and each given a scenario. They were asked to complete a site specific risk assessment, before returning to the group to present and discuss their findings. The purpose of this workshop was to encourage discussion and development around site hazards, for teams to apply to their daily work.

Digger Ball

Teams where split in 2 and given 3 minutes per person to knock a maximum of 3 ducks off logs. This workshop was designed to encourage ops of all levels to have a go in a digger, and for groundsman to gain an understanding of visibility from a machinery ops perspective when on site.

Fault Finding

This workshop featured a vehicle and trailer with chipper onboard that had multiple issues. Teams where asked to record as many faults as possible. The issues included: chipper loaded incorrectly on the trailer, missing number plates, fuel can on back seat, and more. Teams then had another 15 minutes to find as many faults as possible on a chainsaw and hedge cutter that had multiple issues.

Mental Health Presentation, Hosted by Andy from the Lighthouse Club

Andy gave a moving presentation on the important role The Lighthouse Club plays for individuals and families in the construction industry. During the presentation, Andy shared information on all the ways the charity can help, including their free confidential helpline which is available 24/7. After the presentation, Andy joined us for the remainder of the day and engaged in 1-2-1 conversations with anyone who would like one.

FEEDBACK

Overall, the Safety Day was rated 4.75 starts out of 5 by attendees.

When asked what they learned during the day, answers included:

“To speak out when you are unsure”

“Lots on first aid and aerial rescue”

“Health and safety tips and climbing skills”

“The correct way to save someone with a neck injury”

“Log roll, spinal recovery position”

“Additional information on dynamic risk assessments”

“Communication is key”

We were joined on the day by Network Rail, who offered some insight into the day:

“It was great to be invited and it was a really well organised and thought-out day. I found there was genuine positive engagement from everyone and great to see the supply chain included. The facilities and welfare , including the food, was perfect. I observed teams were engaged, having fun, learning, open to learning and very relaxed. The Safety Day is an event EFL should feel proud of.” – Helen Barnes, Network Rail

WITH THANKS

The unwavering support from our supply chain helped us to build an excellent day for our staff and contract partners. A special thank you to our event sponsor Forst for their contribution to the prize giving and their attendance on the day, the Lighthouse Charity for their moving presentation, Arbortec for the excellent raffle prize (and cakes!). All of these organisations and more generously donated to our gift bags which had a value in the region of £50. The gift bags were given to all attendees as thank you for their involvement and where greatly appreciated by all.