5 Tips To Prevent Injury in the Workplace
Injuries in the workplace are frightening, to say the least. Even a minor cut can cause major problems, and you want to be as prepared as possible.
While some injuries are unavoidable, others could be averted if proper steps are implemented. If you want to keep your employees safe, here are a few things you can do to reduce workplace injury.
- Be Prepared
Nobody wants workplace accidents to occur, but they will, especially in manual labor and high-risk occupations. If the accident is not properly handled, you could be facing down the barrel of a lawsuit. You should research good worker’s compensation lawyers to make sure you’re protected should an accident occur.
Along with having a lawyer on your side, develop procedures that employees and executives can follow in order to mitigate the risks of an accident. Hold regular employee trainings to make sure your staff is aware of the risks and how to dodge injuries successfully.
- Keep Equipment Up to Date
Nothing is more likely to cause an accident than outdated equipment. Overtime, parts break down and structures weaken. While you can maintain your equipment through scheduled repairs and tune-ups, you will eventually need to replace the equipment altogether.
For example, injuries oftentimes occur around forklifts. Human error can cause undue accidents, but the latest forklift models make them safer than ever. They have special safeguards that protect users as well as backup cameras, collision warning systems, and other features like setting Forklift Rear Post Toronto that make them safer to operate. You’ll be amazed at the upgrades in these modern machines when you visit your Yale forklift dealer in New Jersey.
- Employ Ergonomic Principles
Ergonomics are gaining a lot of popularity in workplace operations. This is the study of a person’s efficiency when in a working environment. For example, if employees are maneuvering unnecessarily around other workstations to complete their tasks, a collision seems eminent. Efficiency and safety often go hand in hand, so this is an important component for any office.
Look into ergonomic practices for your workplace. In addition, check out ergonomic tools like adjustable desks, chairs, and scissors that are easier on the wrist. It’s surprising how simple ergonomic changes can reduce employee injury.
- Research Safety Weaknesses
Along with evaluating the ergonomics in the office, take a look at the vulnerabilities scattered throughout your work processes. Unfortunately, you can’t Google a list of vulnerabilities to check. Rather, you’ll have to research them firsthand. Every business will have unique safety concerns hinging on the equipment and employees they have.
Proper accident reporting will help you find flaws within your organization. Have safety inspectors walk the floors regularly to scan for vulnerabilities that can cause big trouble. Even small, seemingly unimportant, issues can cause problems, so to be thorough is key.
Most importantly, never take shortcuts. Accidents happen most often when you skip steps or try to speed things along for the sake of meeting a deadline. It’s simply not worth the risk to do so.
- Keep Things Orderly
Poor housekeeping can cause more problems than you might realize. Case in point, slips and falls are some of the most common workers compensation claims out there, and they could have easily been avoided by mopping spills and removing trip hazards from walkways.
Orderly workhouses are especially important in factories that have a lot of moving parts. Walkways must be clear of debris and obstacles at all times with adequate markings to designate the footpath. There should also be stations for cleaning up spills and applying first aid.
The actions you take now will dictate the likelihood of accidents in the future. Keep your employees’ best interest in mind, and don’t take shortcuts on their safety.
