A well-designed and comfortable workplace isn’t always a safe or hazard-free space. Often, people take shortcuts, ignore the ‘Caution wet floor’ warning and other safety measures. Each year, employees report thousands of workplace injuries, of which falling or slipping is the most common. These reported injuries stem from
- Slipping on wet floors
- Sitting on unstable chairs
- Using chairs instead of ladders
- Poor office lighting
- Electrical cords or loose carpeting being in the way of people walking around the office.
Employees should always be aware of and pay attention to workplace safety measures. Additionally, employers should inform staff of any construction or building alterations that could affect their safety, including information on preventive measures against potential hazards.
Here are our top safety tips to remember that can help ensure employees’ safety in the workplace:
- Keep stairs and walkways object free
Encourage employees to use handrails when using stairs and to take caution when they see wet floors. Always make sure that stairs and walkways are not used as storage space, even temporarily. You don’t want any obstructions in employees’ way when they’re navigating through the workplace.
- Keep workspaces neat and tidy
Coffee spills on the floor, and electric cables or cords lying around isn’t safe. Ensure the workspace is clean of spills and any loose wires are secure and not a trip or fire hazard.
- Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures
Make sure emergency processes are visible around the building and known to all employees. These safety measures should include emergency exit signages, contact details for medical, fire and police personnel, and knowing what to do in case of a fire or other security emergency.
- Say no to shortcuts
It’s easy to stand on a chair or desk to store a box, but it’s not safe. Encourage employees to always practice safe workplace procedures, including using ladders or trolleys to make sure they don’t hurt themselves.
- Functional design is important
Workspaces, equipment and systems shouldn’t add physical stress to the bodies of employees. Some effective solutions include,
- Storing heavy items on shelves that are between knee and chest height to reduce strain on the back.
- Supplying employees with footstools or wrist rest, to avoid neck or back strain.
- Regular checks and maintenance to make sure shelves and cabinets are secured to the wall.
- Keep the office bright
Not too bright, though. Lighting should be appropriate for tasks in the workspace. Good lighting can prevent employees from stumbling or walking into equipment and bruising themselves, and prevent eye strain or headaches, especially when working with screens and devices.
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