Are you looking to improve workplace safety?

OSHA estimates that “businesses spend $170 billion a year on costs associated with occupational injuries and illnesses.” These expenditures come straight out of company profits.

Workplaces that establish safety and health management systems can improve their workplace safety efforts and reduce their injury and illness costs by 20 to 40 percent. Increasing workplace safety helps strengthen company morale, boost productivity, and prevent costly injuries. It also helps builds trust between employees and employers and address small problems before they become larger issues.

Workplace Safety Tip#1. Prevent office injuries.

Performing the same or similar tasks over and over for long periods of time often causes injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, pinched nerves, sprains, numbness, and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics deems these types of injuries musculoskeletal disorders, and they are one of the leading causes of lost workday injury and illness. To reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, implement an ergonomic program that has each employee fitted for their job. It may help to have a dedicated ergonomics expert on staff or retainer to address daily issues and make adjustments that are needed. Ask your employees specific questions about how they feel when using their ergonomic set up. This invites an open dialogue with them, which is linked to overall employee happiness—and more than just another way to promote a healthy work environment.

Workplace Safety Tip#2. Eliminate obstacles.

Does your office feel like a labyrinth, filled with unpacked boxes, archived files, blocked pathways, and an unruly amount of stuff? If so, your workers are at a higher risk of injury, illness, and stress. According to OSHA, “safe environments improve employee morale, which often leads to increased productivity and better service.” Get rid of figurative and literal obstructions by creating easily accessible aisles, removing unnecessary clutter, and posting information about breaks and mealtimes so that your employees know your company encourages them to take their time for these. It will save you time and money in the long term, and help your workplace comply with OSHA guidelines.

Workplace Safety Tip#3. Be prepared for emergency.

In case of an earthquake, fire, or other catastrophe, it is important that your workplace is prepared. Make sure that your office runs regular drills and has these easily accessible items:
  • Evacuation plan and wall maps of exits
  • Fire extinguishers
  • First-aid kits
  • Automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
  • Flashlights
  • Supplies
Also, encourage workplace safety practices amongst your fellow employees by turning off and unplugging unused electronic devices, and keeping your work area tidy and clutter-free. You may want to assign “floor captains” to spot check at random intervals to ensure clutter doesn’t creep back. This way, everyone can quickly and easily access safety exits should you need them. Whether it’s removing clutter or being prepared in case of a fire or emergency, creating a safer work environment will do more than help your employees’ physical safety, but benefit their comfort, morale and productivity. If you need help reconfiguring your office space, storing all of your extra stuff, streamlining your office, and creating a safe, easy-to-access workspace, leverage our reputation for safety and let Corovan help.