Because when it comes to your office, safety shouldn’t be sidelined.
Your company might have pages filled with safety policies and regulations. But is it actually implementing them to ensure that the safety gets in practice? If not, you’ve got a big problem. If a safe and secure work environment is what you want, you have to work towards it along with your fellow employees. It is people in the workplace that can ensure the best safety possible not an ancient rule book. You have to figure out unsafe behaviors and how to avoid them. To help you out, here are some ways you can improve the safety in your workplace.
1. Environment Acknowledgement
It is best to observe your surroundings. What we mean by this is that you need to be aware of everything your workplace consists of and weight what is hazardous and what is not. This way, there is more awareness about certain aspects especially machinery which needs major care around. Knowing about potential risks that your company might face against safety is a good place to start. You can avoid it as much as possible if you are aware.
2. Available Emergency Exits
Having readily available emergency exits around the building are great cautionary actions. Because if there happens to be an emergency in your workplace, people would need an easy way to get out of the hazardous area. The same goes for machinery. Some quick shut-off buttons are recommended to be installed so you can stop any further damage from occurring. Installing a panic button system is a good idea.
3. Use Machines Carefully
If your office uses any sort of tool or machinery, even something as simple as a fax machine, they have to be used with utmost care. Also, no shortcuts whatsoever. Shortcuts are the devil and although it might seem tempting, they don’t get the work done. Not to mention that it might put you in harm. So next time you’re using any machinery in the workplace make sure to do so while following the rules.
4. Back Safety Is Important as Well
Even something as simple as an employee’s back is an element of safety precaution. As you know, sitting at an office desk all day can be harmful not only for your concentration, but also for your back. Your shoulders should be aligned with your hips. This can help avoid back problems. Encourage other employees to do the same. Avoid stooping low to pick up things. However, if you must do so, use ergonomic furniture.
5. Take Breaks
Most of workplace accidents and injuries take place because the employee is too tired or stiff. This shouldn’t happen. Asking employees to take frequent but short breaks helps them keep fresh while working. They can also save important tasks for the morning perhaps (a time of better concentration). The more alert the person is, lesser is the chances of an accident in an office. Taking a quick stroll down the corridor and back or heading out of the building for some fresh air helps too.
6. Inquire About Unsafe Places
As a working employee in a company you have the obligatory right to inform a person in-charge about any unsafe elements that might exist. The head has the responsibility to make sure the employees have a safe working environment surrounding them at all times. There should be no exceptions. Informing them about any concerns contributes towards that responsibility.
7. Stay Sober During Work Hours
The use or alcohol or drugs should be absolutely forbidden within the office premises. Not only is it for obvious moral reasons and for professional value but it is also for the safety of other employees. When an individual’s motor control is not at its peak it makes room for more injury and accidents. Why take the risk?
These are the seven safety tips you can take within your office premises. Over all be alert, but stay calm and think about not only yourself but all the other employees you’re working with.