Think Employee Safety

Accidents and injuries in the workplace are a real threat to company health and profitability. Protect against this avoidable loss by implementing a comprehensive safety plan at your place of business.

Start with the Basics

Never assume your staff understands the importance of worksite safety. Ignore “rolling eyes” and take the time to train staff on the basics:

• Correct lifting techniques
• Ladder safety
• Proper machine/equipment operation
• Appropriate tools
• Safe worksite attire
• Fire/emergency preparedness

Showing that you care about safety is the first step towards building a culture where your employees do, too.

Encourage Workers to Take Their Breaks

The ability to concentrate on the job is key to recognizing risks in your surroundings. Employees that are tired, burnt out or distracted are more likely to be involved in an accident. Regular breaks keep workers fresh and alert.

Give Clear Instructions

Misunderstandings arising over the best or proper way to complete tasks often lead to mistakes and injuries. Provide clear and easy-to-follow directions to team members and ask questions to double-check that they understand.

Maintain and Upgrade Equipment

The cost of maintaining machinery pales in comparison to the cost of a major workplace accident. Skimping on equipment upkeep is a poor gamble and one that is very likely to come back and bite you in the future.

Keep First-Aid Kits Fully Stocked and Easy to Access

At a bare minimum, your business must comply with OSHA’s basic First-Aid kit requirements. Additional equipment such as anti-burn compounds and chemical protection or eye-wash may be needed depending on the nature of your worksite.

Be sure that every employee knows where first aid kits are kept and that kits are easily accessible. Multiple kits may be required depending on the size of your operation.

Stress the Importance of Maintaining a Clean Work Environment

Slips and falls are one of the most common time loss accidents in the United States. Keep your workplace organized, uncluttered and free of tripping hazards, and provide staff ample time to clean up at the end of each work day. Require that all spills be cleaned up immediately.

Provide Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Mandate Its Usage

Skin, eye, hearing and respiratory protection depends on access to the proper safety equipment. Depending on your business, the following PPE may be required:

• Earplugs or earmuffs
• Hard hats
• Safety goggles
• Gloves
• Masks
• Back braces
• Non-slip footwear
• Safety harnesses
• Face shields

Cultivate an Environment Where Employees Feel Comfortable Reporting Safety Hazards

Your own team is the best line of defense against safety breaches in the workplace. Maintain open lines of communication and encourage employees to report unsafe working conditions immediately.