Safety in the Workplace
Safety in the Workplace
Workers have a great responsibility to keep safe. On World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April, you might want to remember these tips.
The modern workplace has evolved dramatically over the past couple of years and according to a Gallup report, the average time worked by full-time employees has ticked up to 46.7 hours a week, which is nearly a full extra eight-hour day, reports The Washington Post. Spending more time at work means that your health and safety are more at risk, but the onus is on you to be alert and awake and constantly make your wellbeing a priority.
A successful workplace safety plan encourages employees to identify unsafe behaviours, to recognise opportunities to improve safety and to make well-informed decisions during daily tasks. These tips might help renew your focus.
- Be aware of your surroundings:
All accidents are preventable and being keenly aware of the hazards of your workplace and any changes to your immediate environment that may cause you harm is an important step to keeping yourself safe.
- Keep Work Areas and Emergency Exits Clear:
Make sure to remove any clutter blocking emergency exits, equipment shutoffs, and areas that you are working. A cluttered work area can lead to not having enough space to use tools and pick up heavy objects properly. Furthermore, if an exit is obstructed, you may not be able to quickly escape if an emergency occurs. Placing equipment in proper storage areas after use will help keep the work area and emergency exits clear.
- Protect your back:
Back injuries are often the result of minor injuries, slipped discs or arthritis, and pain can range from acute to chronic. If you work at a desk, keep your shoulders aligned with your hips, and if you’re picking up things, use the correct form (bend your knees) so you take the pressure off your spine.
- Take a regular breather:
These days, many workers are desk-bound, so you need to schedule regular breaks throughout your day. Several work-related injuries and illnesses occur because employees are stressed or burnt out, so always stay fresh and keep your concentration at its best.
- Stay alert:
The abuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace puts your colleagues and you at risk. Workers who misuse addictive substances are 2.7 times more likely than other workers to have injury-related absences, which could jeopardise your job security. Check your behaviour and get professional help if you suspect you have a problem.
- In case of an emergency:
If an accident happens at work, you need to be prepared. Make sure you know where the emergency exits are and familiarise yourself with the company or building’s evacuation plan. You should also ensure that your HR department has an updated list of your emergency contacts and medical aid information. The last thing you want in a crisis is unnecessary chaos.
Life Med can assist your business with emergency medical services for injury on duty cases. Call us on 012 330 9458 to learn more about how we can be of service to you.
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