It was just another day in the office, and I was working on my usual tasks, catching up on emails, putting together witty newsletter content, and unboxing promotional items. I am not going to claim I knew the safe way to open a box back then, but I had been opening boxes for twenty years and never had a problem, so why would today be any different? Except, it did turn out to be different. As I sliced through stubborn paper tape, I ended up doing a way better job of slicing open my thumb than the box. A cut thumb changed the course of my day and the level of my personal commitment to safety in the workplace.
Ensuring the safety of employees in the workplace, regardless of whether they are on a manufacturing floor or working in an office, is critical every day. National Safety Month, observed every June, provides an excellent opportunity to reaffirm a company’s commitment to workplace safety. National Safety Council focuses each week of June on a different safety topic with this year’s topics including safe engagement, risk reduction, slips, trips, and falls, and roadway safety. Let’s define each topic and explore strategies for making sure your workplace is as safe as possible through the joint efforts of employers and employees.
Safe Engagement
Safe engagement involves creating an environment where employees feel valued and are actively involved in safety initiatives. Fostering a culture where safety is a shared responsibility, management encourages everyone to contribute ideas and solutions is key.
Strategies for Safe Engagement:
- Training and Education: Regular safety training sessions keep employees informed about best practices and new safety protocols. Interactive training methods, such as workshops and simulations, can enhance understanding and retention.
- Open Communication: Encourage employees to voice safety concerns without fear of retaliation. Implement a system for reporting hazards anonymously if necessary.
- Recognition Programs: Recognize and reward employees who demonstrate a commitment to safety. This could be through formal awards or simple acknowledgments during meetings.
By engaging employees in safety efforts, you create a proactive safety culture that can identify and address potential hazards before they result in accidents.
Risk Reduction
Risk reduction is about identifying potential hazards and taking steps to minimize their impact. This proactive approach is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe workplace.
Key Steps in Risk Reduction:
- Hazard Identification: Conduct regular inspections to identify potential hazards. Involve employees in this process as they can provide valuable insights into risks that may not be immediately apparent.
- Risk Assessment: Evaluate the identified hazards to determine their severity and the likelihood of occurrence. Employers should prioritize the risks that pose the greatest threat to employee safety.
- Mitigation Strategies: Implement measures to eliminate or reduce risks including engineering controls, administrative controls, or personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Continuous Monitoring: Safety is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update risk assessments and mitigation strategies to adapt to changing conditions and current information.
Effective risk reduction requires a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to invest in necessary resources and training.
Prevention of Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace accidents, causing nearly 700 fatalities per year in the workplace according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Preventing these incidents requires a combination of good housekeeping, employee awareness, and proper equipment.
Preventive Measures:
- Housekeeping: Maintain clean and orderly workspaces. Promptly clean up spills and remove clutter from walkways. Ensure that floors are in good condition and free of hazards.
- Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for preventing slips, trips, and falls. Ensure that all areas, especially stairwells and hallways, are well-lit.
- Signage: Using clear signage warns employees of potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces. Be sure signs are visible and easy to understand.
- Footwear: Encourage employees to wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Provide guidance on selecting the right shoes for different work environments.
- Training: Educate employees about the importance of being vigilant and taking care when walking in the workplace. Highlight common hazards and how to avoid them.
By taking these steps, we can significantly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls, creating a safer work environment for everyone.
Roadway Safety
For businesses that involve driving, whether for deliveries, transportation, or commuting, roadway safety is a critical concern. Injuries resulting from roadway incidents involving motorized land vehicles is the leading cause of work-related deaths. Ensuring the safety of employees on the road protects them from harm and reduces the risk of costly accidents.
Roadway Safety Practices:
- Driver Training: Provide comprehensive training for all employees who drive as part of their job. This should include defensive driving techniques, safe driving practices, and the proper handling of vehicles.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain company vehicles to ensure they are in safe operating condition. Address any issues promptly to prevent breakdowns and accidents.
- Policies and Procedures: Establish clear policies regarding safe driving practices, such as prohibiting the use of mobile phones while driving, requiring seatbelt use, and setting speed limits.
- Fatigue Management: Recognize the dangers of driver fatigue. Implement schedules that allow for adequate rest and breaks and educate employees on the importance of staying alert while driving.
- Monitoring and Feedback: Utilize technology to monitor driving behavior and provide feedback. GPS systems and telematics can track speed, braking, and other driving habits, allowing for corrective action if needed.
By prioritizing roadway safety, you protect employees and other road users, and reduce the risk of accidents and associated costs.
Conclusion
National Safety Month is a reminder of the importance of creating a safe work environment. By focusing on safe engagement, risk reduction, the prevention of slips, trips, and falls, and roadway safety you can foster a culture of safety. Let’s use this month as an opportunity to evaluate current practices, implement necessary changes, and recommit to the safety and well-being of the workforce.
Is understaffing becoming a safety issue for your company? Contact Peoplelink today. We can help!