Even just one workplace accident can have a profoundly negative effect on your business. Not only do accidents reduce productivity and morale, but they also leave your business open to lawsuits and workers’ compensation liability. When it comes to accidents, the most effective policy is to put in place preventative measures that can help you stop accidents from happening in the first place. Here are three ways that you can keep your employees safe.
Back-Up Power
A power failure emergency can be disastrous for a business, especially small businesses. With storm season approaching, it’s very important to have a plan in place that will help mitigate the risks associated with loss of power in your facility. Losing power can cause reduced productivity, loss of inventory, and possibly even workplace accidents for your employees. Accidents with machinery or even just navigating around your facility in the dark can leave your employees vulnerable to accidental injury. The best way to mitigate this risk is to set up a back-up power system that will start in the event of power loss, such as portable or standby generators.
Spill Kit
If your business works with toxic chemicals, it’s crucial that you keep the appropriate spill kits on hand in case of an accident. Chemical spills pose a very serious health risk to your employees, and not having a spill kit available can leave you open to liability issues, even if no one gets hurt. If your company works with oils, solvents, acids, bases or any other potentially hazardous material, you need to have a spill kit in your facility. There are different types of spill kits you can use depending on what type of products you are working within your business, so it’s important that you choose the correct one.
Keep Workspaces Clean
Nothing spells trouble like a disorderly work area. Having clutter all over the ground can make it difficult for employees to maneuver around your facility. Combine that with machinery or hazardous materials, and you have a recipe for disaster. It’s important to perform regular housekeeping, keeping your location free of debris with marked footpaths and spill stations. You must also ensure emergency exits are always accessible, and you must follow your local fire code regulations.
Following these few tips can make a serious difference in the well-being of your employees and, ultimately, your business. Whether you work in an office, a warehouse, or a manufacturing facility, employee safety should be one of your top concerns.
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