No one wants to get hurt at work, but we can often neglect health and safety practices that have been put in place because it can take extra time and effort. Checking your workplace safety during the day is an easy way to keep your working environment and colleagues safe.
If you are a supervisor, then it shows your employees that you care about their well-being. If you are an employee, the following health and safety protocols that have been put in place is in yours and your co-workers best interests. Here are some tips to keep yourself and others safe at work.
Use Equipment Properly
Misusing tools and machinery is the biggest cause of workplace injuries. When you use equipment to make sure that you are using it for its intended purpose and that you are using it correctly. Furthermore, regularly check and clean equipment to ensure that it is safe to use.
Wear Safety Equipment (PPE)
When using equipment or cleaning up, make sure that you are wearing the correct safety equipment. Ensuring that you are wearing the proper safety equipment as per health and safety protocols and checking that the equipment is undamaged significantly lowers your risk of getting injured.
Avoid Slips and Trips
As the second most common cause of workplace injuries, it is important to ensure that your work area is clear and any spills are cleaned up to prevent any trips or falls. Check your work area to make sure there are no protruding nails, loose boards or holes in the floors. If you spot any of these characteristics, change the damaged flooring or report it to your supervisor.
Prevent Objects from Falling
To prevent objects from falling, use protective measures such as nettings, toe rails and toe boards. Additionally, stack any boxes straight up and down and place any heavier objects on lower shelves. Keep stacked objects out of the way of work areas and aisles.
Use the Correct Posture when Lifting
To avoid back injuries when lifting, keep your back straight and use your legs to lift the item. Pick it up without bending or twisting, and, where possible, use mechanical aids such as forklifts, wheelbarrows or a conveyor belt
Eliminate Fire Hazards
If your workplace handles combustible materials, make sure that you only keep the amount you need for your work task. When you are not using the materials, make sure that it is stored in an assigned safe storage area away from sources of ignition. Ensure that any combustible waste is stored in metal receptacles and is safely disposed of daily. 5% or more of a room’s surface that is covered in 0.8 millimetres of dust – roughly the width of a penny – can cause an explosion if the dust catches fire. To prevent dust accumulation, frequently clean the areas where dust gathers with an industrial vacuum.
Take Breaks
Often, workplace injuries occur when a worker is tired and can’t spot dangers in their surroundings. By taking regular breaks you are able to stay more alert to any dangers that may occur.