Purpose

Yaskawa America, Inc. is committed to a culture of safety in which all personnel—including employees, contractors, and visitors—are empowered and obligated to stop any work that presents a potential risk to health, safety, the environment, or property.

This policy outlines the authority and expectations surrounding Stop Work Authority (SWA), including procedures and protections for those who invoke it.

Policy Statement

All Yaskawa associates and contractors have the authority and responsibility to stop any task or operation if it is believed to be unsafe or if conditions have changed in a way that introduces new hazards.

When to Initiate Stop Work

Stop Work should be initiated when:

• The task presents an imminent danger.
• The scope of work changes unexpectedly.
• Procedures are unclear or not being followed.
• Required PPE or controls are missing or inadequate.
• Site conditions (e.g., weather, lighting) have changed.
• There is uncertainty about how to perform the task safely.

Stop Work Procedure

• Stop the work immediately and safely.
• Notify others and secure the area.
• Communicate concerns to supervisors or EHS.
• Assess the issue with relevant personnel.
• Resolve the hazard and implement corrections.
• Resume work only when it is safe to do so.

No Retaliation Policy

No associate or contractor will be disciplined, demoted, terminated, harassed, or discriminated against for issuing a Stop Work or filing a safety complaint in good faith. Any retaliatory action may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination or removal from the job site.

Responsibilities

• All Personnel: Must stop unsafe work and support others who do the same.
• Supervisors/Managers: Must promote and support SWA without penalty.
• EHS Department: Investigates events and ensures resolution.

Training

All associates and contractors shall receive Stop Work Authority training during onboarding and periodic safety training. This includes:

• When and how to use SWA
• Reporting and communication procedures
• Roles and responsibilities
• Protection from retaliation

Commitment to Safety

Yaskawa believes that every team member is a safety leader. Empowering individuals to speak up and stop unsafe work is essential to our safe and productive work environment. Safety is not just a rule—it’s a core value.

Revision History

Program Review