‘Safety begins here’
OFTENTIMES, WE see slogans saying, ‘Safety begins here’, as we enter a business premises. Well, do not take that sign for granted, as that is occupational health at the fore. It is creating a sense of physical well-being and mental health focus starting at the entrance. Safety should be the primary concern of all organisations. Initiating a customer-friendly environment mindset prevents work-related injuries and illnesses. Studies have shown that work-safety practices and ergonomics promote efficiency. How do we make this happen? Start simply with the furniture and equipment that are used. Sitting at a desk for several hours, possibly around a computer, requires a certain level of comfort to prevent backache, or eye-ache, etc. Likewise, the equipment or machinery used are to be maintained, thus preventing hazards. Since not every employer, especially small or medium-size enterprises has the wherewithal allocated for a dedicated occupational health programme, start with the basic prevention principles in mind. This is where a safety gear is essential. An ordinary dusk mask can prevent minor respiratory issues, or a specific type of glove for a particular job to protect one’s hand in
a situation. Note the date of your first aid kit supplies, expiration dates are frequently missed.
A small puddle or a slippery mat could be corrected easily before it is too late. Thus, by being aware of your environment, it is necessary to be proactive and remove the danger.
Fire Equipment Sales and Services strives to encourage workplace safety and accident prevention and has been doing so over the last 40 years. When the business started at South Race Course in Mandeville 40 years ago, we sold a wide range of safety equipment and serviced fire extinguishers in the bauxite, sugar, hotel and restaurant industries, and educational and health institutions in the central and western regions of Jamaica. Some which are major corporations we have either outlived, or they are under new management. For example, I can recall that when Frome Sugar Estate ordered some 350 coveralls from us, we had to source these coveralls from other suppliers; despite all efforts, we found it challenging to meet the quota. During those fledgling years our clientele would continually request products that we could not afford to stock. It was at that point in 1985 I realised that it was necessary to relocate to Kingston and acquire our present location at Park Avenue, Collins Green. We had to move with the time and preempt the global impact of technology in the safety industry. Consequently, we increased our staff complement and with more space at our disposal, Fire Equipment Sales and Services diversified into manufacturing industrial uniforms at a lower cost, which we have been doing now for over 33 years and more recently school uniforms for various schools and learning institution, we continue to supply and install fire alarm systems, Design and manufacture screens for prints, and digitising of company logos. The introduction of First Aid Training and the designing of fire escape route plans are some of the innovative services that are now offer, Between late 1990s and 2000s our permanent staff complement increased to 27 persons, not including consultant, contractors and international technical support personnel, this has played a pivotal role in our longevity. Twenty years ago we were approached by the Girl Guide Association of Jamaica to manufacture their Girl Guide and Brownie uniforms. FESS was subsequently honoured in 2010 by the Governor General, the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen for the outstanding service to the Girl Guide Association.
As we continue our venture to succeed in fire prevention, safety and manufacturing, our customers remain our focus to satisfy their needs. We take this opportunity to acknowledge our partners and staff as well as to convey our sincere appreciation to our valued customers who have been supporting us throughout the years.