There are potential hazards lurking in offices and other places of work... but this is how to avoid them.
The workplace is full of things that can go wrong - anything from falls and electrocutions to being struck by an object. According to OSHA. over 5,000 workers died on the job in 2017, due to accidents like these.
The good news, though, is that these numbers are down, as are related ones, since injuries and illnesses experienced by workers have decreased from 10.9 incidents per 100 workers in 1972 to 2.8 per 100 in 2017.
In order to keep these low figures, decrease them even further and make sure our employees are safe, we need to be aware of common safety hazards and how to avoid them.
Does your team know about all emergency exits and procedures?
Every office should have emergency protocols posted and should go over these regularly. Exits need to be clearly marked and easy to get to, and everyone from interns to the CEO needs to be familiar with what to do in case of a fire, tornado, earthquake, lockdown and so on.
Pro Tip: Some tools that can help with this include flashlights and escape tools, so equip your team with these items!
Are there hazardous materials in your office?
Another common safety issue is the one surrounding hazardous materials. Make sure things such as cleaners and paint are put away, and do frequent checks to ensure this protection.
Pro Tip: Some of these situations may require gear like gloves, so make sure your workplace has a supply closet with needed items.
Do obstacles set up risks for falls?
The average office is full of desks, electrical gadgets, rolling chairs, conference tables and kitchen areas, and these pieces of furniture and spaces alone could lead to falls, trips and slips. A workplace needs to be organized and tidy, which includes keeping cords tucked away, having steps clearly marked and leaving plenty of room for everyone to walk and move around. This will cut back on the risk of accidents, will make the place look better and will lead to more efficient work!
Pro Tip: Make desks look and feel even better and even more productive by handing out high-quality and branded desk items to your employees.
Is the electric work up to date?
Many accidents in the workplace happen due to electrical issues. Regularly call in a professional to check wiring and replace any out-of-date appliances, plugins, cords or wires.
Pro Tip: If/when the electricity goes out, supplies such as lighters and/or power banks will be needed, so keep some of these around the office, as well.
How are contagious illnesses handled in your workplace?
And last but not least, everyone at work needs to know how serious infections, diseases and even the average cold can be. Encourage cleanliness, encourage people to stay home if they are too sick, and encourage overall wellness through education in the form of leaflets, seminars and discussions.
Pro Tip: Encourage health by giving everyone products like first aid kits, pill boxes and hand sanitizer, too.
Bonus Pro Tip: Send out regular safety reminders to employees with pieces such as memo boards, bumper stickers, texts (which is when car chargers could come in handy) and emails (meaning you could also supply everyone with gadgets like USBs, too).
