10 Things Your Employees Need to Know About Workplace Safety |
Posted: May 20, 2019 |
In the workplace, it’s incredibly important for all employees, contractors and couriers to have the opportunity to undertake their tasks without the worry of being injured. In Australia, we have numerous laws set in place that govern how workplaces are laid out and how tasks are to be performed to reduce the risk of injury, and it’s essential you follow these. If you’ve implemented all government guides and are looking for a few other ways to improve your employee’s safety at work, then we have listed the ten things your employees need to know about workplace safety below.
It’s Not Safe to SlouchA particularly important thing to remember in office workplaces is the reminder to never slouch. We suggest having flyers on the wall or even stick them on the back of office chairs with little hints that remind staff to sit upright. You might also want to inform team members not to twist, turn and spin on their chairs so that there’s a reduced chance of someone getting hurt.
You Must Stay AlertFor workplaces with high-risk activities, it’s suggested you make it known that your employees need to be alert at all times. No one should be focused on their smartphone, listening to music or doing anything else if they’re walking by a loading dock. In safety meetings, outline that it’s important that staff be well-aware of their surroundings, especially if there’s machinery present.
Safely Use ToolsWhen it comes to using tools such as grinders, staple guns, drills and any other types of similar equipment, it’s vital that you’ve taught staff how to use them. You don’t want to run the risk of someone accidentally hurting themselves, and the best way to prevent this is to hold a quick training course or two on how to use each tool in the safest way possible. You may want to highlight to use of safety goggles, steel cap boots and long sleeves too.
It’s Okay to Slow DownTo a workflow-specific reminder now, it’s always recommended that you make sure your employees feel comfortable enough to take breaks now and then. It’s okay to be a ‘get it done’ type of manager or boss, though if employees work long hours without breaks, they’ll be more prone to injury. Take a moment to make it known that it’s fine to take breaks. Even try scheduling a set break time for all employees to take a load off and get a drink or bite to eat.
Hazard Reporting is EncouragedWhen an employee notices a potential workplace hazard, such as debris in a hallway or an oil spill, it’s crucial that they notify you or a supervisor. In workplace health and safety meetings, go over the importance of alerting colleagues of a hazard so that other staff aren’t at risk of injuring themselves on overlooked workplace hazards.
Exit Blocking is DiscouragedIn the event of an emergency, your exits need to be visible and accessible. That means no one should be stacking items in front of them and blocking or locking emergency exits. Work to notify your employees of the importance of keeping exists visible and completely free of debris so that emergencies can be handled safely and buildings can be evacuated effectively.
Stop Lifting HeavyAs expected, continuous heavy lifting is going to result in an injury sooner or later. Make use of machinery or invest in manual machinery that staff can use to lift and stack inventory more easily. If you already have these types of equipment, encourage your team members to use them as often as possible, remember to highlight the importance of being alert whilst using them.
Chemicals and Flammables Must be Stored SafelyChances are that your business handles at least a few chemicals or flammable liquids. Whether they be fuel, corrosive materials or a simple cleaning agent, they must be stored correctly after use. It’s essential to invest in safety storage like Storemasta cabinetry and to ask all staff to store these materials within these cabinets to prevent spills, chemical burns or fires.
Talk About StressAbout everyone would agree that work can become extremely stressful from time to time and that it’s important not to keep this bottled up. Employees should feel free to express their concerns to managerial and supervisory staff and in doing so, have the confidence that their issues be dealt with.
Wearing Safety Equipment is EssentialTo conclude, safety equipment must be recognised as an essential and not a fashion accessory. Ensure all staff members are aware of their requirement to wear hard hats, steel capped boots, earplugs, goggles and all other safety equipment. This way you, and your staff will reduce the risk of workplace injury.
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