When the Industrial Age began, conditions were dismal for many workers. They faced numerous threats, not the least of which were extremely dangerous machinery, exposure to harmful substances, poor air quality, and extreme heat and cold. In the late 1800s, America began to regulate those dangers. Since then, great strides have been made in workplace safety, and work-related accidents have decreased significantly.
Still, accidents aren’t unheard of these days. Though certain dangers are involved in every line of work, some jobs are more dangerous than others. Whether you’re operating a manufacturing business, a food processing facility, a construction site, or an office, it’s important to do everything you can to protect your employees. Crucial safety measures vary from one company to the next, but the following general measures can aid in reducing workplace accidents.
Employee Training
One of the most effective ways to minimize workplace accidents is through employee training. Be sure employees understand the dangers they may be up against, and teach them how to avoid them. Train them on safely operating their machinery, using safety equipment properly, how to respond to emergencies, and other factors that may come into play. This should be part of a comprehensive onboarding process. In fact, you may want to test employees on their knowledge of their roles in your business and your safety protocols to ensure they fully understand them.
Access Control
Another way to improve safety in the workplace is to implement access control systems. No doubt, different employees play different roles in your daily operations, and procedures and safety protocols aren’t the same from one department or job to the next. As such, you may need to be sure only those who are trained in specific jobs and safety measures are allowed in various areas of your business. Access control systems can help you do just that. They’ll keep unauthorized personnel from entering areas they shouldn’t. They’ll also help you protect visitors from potential dangers.
Equipment Maintenance
Additionally, keeping your machinery and equipment maintained will reduce the risks of workplace accidents. Create clear maintenance schedules for your machinery, and be sure you cover all the bases with routine upkeep. From manufacturing equipment and ventilation systems to stair rails, flooring, and machine guards, guarantee that everything is in top-notch condition. At the same time, it’s important to ensure employees keep their individual workspaces clean and safe to further minimize the risks of injuries.
Protecting Your Employees Against Workplace Injuries
Workplace safety has greatly improved over time, but that doesn’t mean all dangers have been eliminated at this point. Certain risks still exist, and they can be costly for your employees and your company. No two businesses’ safety concerns are quite the same, so working with professionals to conduct a safety assessment is crucial. It’ll help you pinpoint specific dangers your employees may be up against.
From there, use the measures mentioned here to help keep your employees safe. Along the way, be sure to emphasize the importance of following procedures and protocols to reduce the risks of accidents. Be sure to conduct follow-up safety assessments as well to stay on top of new developments as they arise.