It doesn’t matter how many signs you put up or seminars you hold, if employees don’t take their safety seriously, you’ll never be able to prevent injuries. This is why it is essential to help instruct employees on how to take responsibility for their own safety, in addition to providing them with specific training on specific hazards. When combined properly, employees will be more aware of the risks in the area and know how to take steps to avoid them. The following 5 safety tips will help keep employees safe in virtually any situation:
- Fighting Fatigue
One of the major causes of injury is employees attempting to keep working when they are too fatigued. This is especially common in workplace environments where there is a high demand for physical strength. Moving large items from place to place, for example, might not be a problem at first but if employees aren’t taking necessary breaks to regain their strength, it can quickly lead to an accident or injury. - Proper Use of Tools & Equipment
Most facilities have a wide range of different types of tools and equipment which are used on a daily basis. These items are great for making a job easier and getting things done more efficiently. If, however, employees aren’t using the properly, or are trying to use a tool for a job it was not designed for, it can cause the tools or equipment to get damaged, or the individual using them to get injured. - Utilizing Safety Equipment
Facilities typically provide their employees with all the proper safety equipment they need. The problem, however, is that many of the employees don’t use the equipment on a regular basis. Using safety goggles, for example, may seem like an unnecessary safety step to some people, until something strikes their eye and causes permanent damage. In addition to simply having the safety equipment available, facilities need to provide training on how to use it and why it is important. - Accessible Emergency Exits
Emergency exits are often the only way to escape a fire, chemical spill or other hazard. Unfortunately, these exits are often blocked by people stacking items there or neglecting to keep the area clean. Instructing everyone in the facility to keep the areas around emergency exits clear is absolutely essential for any company. In addition, having a blocked emergency exit will cause major problems on any OSHA or other inspections that are performed. - Being Aware of Surroundings
Taking the time to instruct employees on the importance of being aware of their surroundings is very important. There are often hazards around every corner in facilities, and if they are not paying attention, it will put them at significant risk. When walking through any facility, it is essential that they keep their eyes scanning for potential risks. In addition, never carry items which block or restrict the view of the surrounding area. Avoiding distractions and paying attention to the surrounding area can help identify and avoid a wide range of different dangers.
Most facilities have a wide range of different types of tools and equipment which are used on a daily basis. These items are great for making a job easier and getting things done more efficiently. If, however, employees aren’t using the properly, or are trying to use a tool for a job it was not designed for, it can cause the tools or equipment to get damaged, or the individual using them to get injured.Additional Resources
- Forklift Safety– creativesafetysupply.com
- Respiratory Protection – 5 Tips to Keep your Employees Healthy– babelplex.com
- 5 Barrier Safety Tips for Inside Work– blog.creativesafetysupply.com
- Safety Floor Signs– aislemarking.com
- Would Emergency Responders Be Safe in Your Facility?– creativesafetypublishing.com
- Tips for Keeping Your Storage Area Organized– realsafety.org
- Safe Stacking and Storage in the Warehouse– safetyblognews.com
- 10 Safety Signs to Improve Your Workplace– lean-news.com
- Arc Flash Safety Requirements– hiplogic.com