Workplace safety is not only a moral obligation, it’s also a legal one. The topic of health and safety at work is more complex than you might expect – and there can be economic benefits on top of social benefits if it’s implemented correctly.
If you’re wondering how to get started with health and safety in the workplace, don’t panic. There are a few simple steps you can take and ongoing procedures you can implement to ensure you’re compliant. Here’s what you need to know.
Health and safety policy
Every business should have a health and safety policy prepared. This is a legal requirement and guidance on how to create this policy is provided by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). It sets out how to approach health and safety in the workplace and determines how an employer should manage health and safety risks. Businesses with five or more employees should have this policy written down. Any changes to it must be shared with employees so that everyone is up to date.
Machinery and training
If your business involves employees operating machinery and equipment, you must ensure that they receive sufficient training before they’re trusted to use it. On top of this, maintaining equipment is another important element to make sure that it’s functioning smoothly and safely. It may be necessary to clean machinery regularly or use ratchet straps to secure some parts down for added caution, for example.
Provide the right equipment
Accidents can easily happen if an employee attempts to do the job without the correct tools and equipment. This can also impact productivity, as tasks will likely take longer, as well as exposing employees to unsafe conditions. By equipping teams with the right tools, everyone will benefit – and the end result will be of far better quality.
Clear labels and visual aids
Visual aids and clearly labelled signs will help to keep things functioning smoothly. There may be a leak and therefore a slippery surface that needs attention drawing to it, for example. Otherwise, a list of safety reminders beside a more dangerous piece of machinery could prompt employees to wear the correct PPE or set up the equipment in a particular way.
Beyond physical posters, digital signage can help to keep workers safe by showcasing real-time alerts in emergencies. Digital signage also means you can get creative with how you communicate with others by broadcasting helpful safety notices. Displaying these visual aids in staff rooms as well as onsite can make in difference when trying to convey certain messages across the workplace.
What are your thoughts on how health and safety can be improved in your workplace? While health and safety policies are reserved for employers to create, employees need to raise any risks they feel could cause issues in the future.
