Workplace Safety: What to Do and Why
Workplace safety is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes. According to the U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics there were 2,607,900 nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the private industry and 5,190 total fatal injuries' in 2021. The cost of workplace injuries and illnesses is also significant, costing businesses billions of dollars each year in lost productivity, medical expenses, and workers' compensation claims.
There are a number of things that businesses can do to improve workplace safety. These include:
- Implementing a comprehensive safety program. A comprehensive safety program should include a variety of elements, such as hazard identification and assessment, training, and enforcement of safety rules.
- Providing employees with the necessary safety equipment. Employees should be provided with the proper safety equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves, to protect them from hazards on the job.
- Creating a culture of safety. A culture of safety is one in which everyone is committed to safety and takes responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others.
By taking these steps, businesses can help to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, which can save lives, improve productivity, and reduce costs.
Here are some additional tips for improving workplace safety:
- Keep your work area clean and organized. Cluttered work areas can create tripping and falling hazards.
- Use the right tools for the job. Using the wrong tools can lead to injuries.
- Follow safety procedures. Safety procedures are in place for a reason. Follow them to stay safe.
- Report hazards to your supervisor. If you see a hazard, report it to your supervisor so that it can be fixed.
- Get trained on safety procedures. Training can help you to identify and avoid hazards.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to what you are doing and where you are going. This will help you to avoid hazards.
- Be careful when working with machinery. Machinery can be dangerous if it is not used properly.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves, can help to protect you from injuries.
By following these tips, you can help to create a safe work environment for yourself and your coworkers.