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The primary focus of mitigation is to reduce vulnerabilities to identified or potential hazards before they occur.

An uncovered extension cord that is stretched across a common walkway presents a clear hazard for anyone using that route. The potential is greater if the area is dark and not lighted for safe passage. This type of hazard can be mitigated by elimination or covering of the extension cord and ensuring the area is properly lighted.

Other hazards may be more severe and require higher levels of intervention and/or mitigation. Identification of known or potential hazards is the first step to taking appropriate steps toward mitigation.

Those who are "already" prepared have a much better chance of survival because they already have a plan and they are (hopefully) ready to implement it when the disaster strikes.

Mitigation -- A Joint Responsibility

Awareness of potential problems is an important aspect of mitigation. Management can -- and SHOULD -- enhance mitigation efforts within and throughout the organization by increasing safety awareness campaigns and rewarding those who promptly report hazards for immediate mitigation efforts.

Suggestion:

Use simple techniques to broadcast mitigation intentions and appreciate mitigation actions by staff.

Create, publish and update an 8.5" x 11.0" paper poster recognizing those who actively participate in a mitigation program or strategy to recognize and reduce and/or remove hazards from the work environment.

Individuals also play an important role in mitigation efforts. Making sure rear access doors are closed and locked reduce potential entry by unauthorized persons. This helps to maintain a secure working environment for all.

Suggestion:

Post a sign indicating "Keep This Door Closed" on the door and on the wall near the entry so it will be seen by all who enter and remind them to close the door behind them.

Developing an "all hazards" approach to mitigation allows for rapid expansion that will include those hazards that have been overlooked and/or not included up to that point. This can be easily accomplished by having periodic "mitigation" discussions that promote involvement by all.

Mitigation "Idea" Box

Creating and maintaining a "mitigation idea box" (similar to the suggestion box concept) provides an available medium for anonymous contributions that might otherwise not be addressed.

Creating a "Mitigation Idea of the Quarter" clearly demonstrates an organization's focus on the topic and rewards those who participate through submissions. It is important the selection criteria be published and made available to all, and clearly identify the qualification criteria.

Qualifying situations can be modified or altered to focus on specific hazards of interest to the organization, which can serve to promote interest while demonstrating the organization's ongoing and sincere interest in mitigation efforts.

Here's what we present to you as of today:

.: EM @ TMQG :.