Workplace Safety
Workplace safety refers to the working environment at a company and encompasses all factors that impact the safety, health, and well-being of employees. A work environment free from injuries and accidents attracts employees. Employees are more satisfied and productive in such an environment. A safe work environment is a productive one. It is the right of all employees to have safety in the workplace. No matter the size or type of business, procedures for safety in the workplace are a necessity for all staff.
Workplace safety includes employee awareness related to basic safety, workplace hazards, and risks relating to hazards, implementation of hazard preventions, and putting into practice necessary safer methods, techniques, processes, and safety culture in the workplace.
Safety training and education for employees are imparted periodically to make them aware of and update them with the latest safety measures.
Importance of Workplace Safety:
- Reduces workplace stress
- Improves awareness about workplace
- Prevents workplace injuries due to inappropriate use of tools
- Improves productivity
Benefits of Workplace Safety:
- The renewed or enhanced commitment to safety and health and the cooperative atmosphere between employers and workers have been linked to:
- Improvements in the product, process, and service quality
- Better workplace morale
- Improved employee recruiting and retention
- A more favorable image and reputation (among customers, suppliers, and the community) Helps avoid damage to industrial-grade equipment
Workplace safety hazards can include:
- Dangerous Chemicals
- Hazardous Electrical Equipment
- Machinery & Tools Hazard
- Fire Accidents
Ways to Create a Safe Working Environment:
1. Being Aware and Identifying Workplace Hazards
This is the first step to creating a safe working environment. Employers need to identify workplace hazards and safety issues first.
2. Implementing Workplace Safety Programs
One way to do this is to include workplace safety in the company’s mission statement. It should be the duty of every employee to carry out the safety policies.
Employers should investigate all accidents in the workplace. They should encourage employees to follow all safety procedures.
3. Providing Proper Safety Training to Employees
Training is an important part of every company’s safety program to protect employees from accidents. Employers should provide employees with the necessary training to reduce workplace accidents. Employees should operate all equipment and machinery safely and adequately.
4. Using Protective Safety Equipment
The usage of equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause workplace injuries is significant. Employees may have to work with chemicals, machines, electronics, and other potential work hazards. Employers must provide such employees with personal protective equipment (P.P.E.).
5. Reporting Unsafe Working Conditions
Employees must inform any safety hazards or work risks to the management. Employers are legally obligated to ensure safe working environments for their employees. They must end workplace safety hazards and promote safety in the workplace.
6. Practicing Correct Posture
Bad posture is one of the main reasons for back pain. It is imperative to practice good and correct posture to reduce the risk of getting hurt.
7. Reducing Workplace Stress
Job insecurity, workplace bullying, high workload, etc., can cause workplace stress. Learn how to combat workplace stress and avoid its adverse effects.
8. Promoting Regular Breaks
Taking frequent breaks will prevent tiredness and fatigue. This will further prevent injuries or illnesses. Breaks help employees stay fresh and focused.
9. Easy Access to Exits in Case of Emergencies
Primary and Secondary exits must be defined for routine and emergency situations respectively. Employees are to be made aware of the exits and assembly areas. Rehearsals for emergency situations are to be practiced routinely.
10. Using Mechanical Aids
An industrial job may need employees to work with heavy equipment. There are many injury risks involved in trying to lift and move heavy objects. Employees can use a conveyor belt, forklift, or wheelbarrow instead of lifting manually.
Employees have the right to be safe even as they carry out different tasks in every organization. Hence, every employer must prioritize workplace safety and look after employee protection in order to promote the well-being of all staff in the organization.
Rojina Chapagain
Registered Nurse
Danphe Care