Personal injuries can be disastrous for businesses. They can affect productivity, bring hefty costs, and even damage the company’s image. Employers also have to spend time and resources hiring and training replacements.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to ensure a safe and comfortable work environment for all. Follow these steps to help reduce workplace accidents:
Keep the workplace clean
A cluttered, unclean workspace increases the risk of hazards. Cables and cords lying around can cause trips, spillages can lead to slips and falls. Use epoxy solutions for garage floors.
Clear your floors of unused equipment and make sure there’s enough space for people to walk on safely. Ensure spillages are quickly cleaned. Upgrading your flooring system can also reduce spillage hazards since outdated floors are more likely to hold moisture. Regardless if you work in a warehouse or an office, there are various epoxy solutions for garage floors and cubicles that will make cleaning spills easier and quicker.
Provide safety equipment
Wearing of protective equipment should be enforced at hiring, especially for high-risk job sites. Common safety equipment includes goggles, gloves, hard hats, safety boots, earplugs, among others. Employees also need comprehensive training to ensure they use the right equipment in the right manner, and for the right jobs.
Educate employees on safety awareness
Never underestimate the power of education. Workers should be fully trained on injury detection, fire and equipment safety, and hazard prevention and control. Companies should also have clear protocols for on-site emergencies and securing compensation claims.
Posting proper signage ensures safety practices stay top of mind with employees. Take time to put up signs and posters on noticeable places and frequently used areas. They should also be visible in spaces where specific procedures should be practiced.
Apart from preventing accidents, workplace safety programs have also been found to improve productivity and reduce turnover rates. Workers are more likely to stay in a company that values their safety and well-being.
Carefully screen new hires
Employee screening is a key step to early prevention. Verifying that your potential employees are fit to perform their required duties can go a long way towards reducing injuries.
Ensure the candidate has sufficient experience to do their tasks safely and efficiently. This is crucial especially for positions that require handling heavy-duty equipment and daily exposure to hazardous chemicals.
If the role requires strenuous physical activity, it’s advisable to include a full physical evaluation. A detailed analysis of a candidate’s health status will help identify existing conditions that might worsen if they accept the job.
Offer ample insurance coverage
Unfortunately, accidents do happen no matter how much you prepare. While you can’t stop them from occurring, you can minimize their impact by having sufficient workers’ compensation coverage.
Workers’ compensation insurance can help pay for hospital bills, medications, rehabilitation costs, and medical equipment. It can also help personal injury victims pay for their family’s expenses while they’re recovering.
When it comes to occupation injuries and sickness, prevention is much better than cure. Encouraging a safe and healthy workplace will not only protect your employees, but also ensure the growth of your business.