Creating a safe working environment requires attention to several fundamental elements. Employee and visitor safety, evacuation and security procedures, and the regular maintenance of company property all play a role in effective workplace safety. Ignoring any facet of safety and security could put employees in danger and could also reduce productivity and company profits.
Preventing Accidents in the Workplace
Just as a parent might require special equipment around the house to keep children safe, the average workplace must also be outfitted with safe equipment as well as a program designed to address safety issues. All business owners should consider creating an accident prevention program (APP) for their place of business.
There are many resources available for developing an effective APP. One of the most valuable features of such a program is that potential hazards in the workplace can be found and resolved before anyone is injured. An accident in the workplace may jeopardize the future health of a business. Therefore, reducing the potential for employee injuries protects a company’s reputation and financial future.
Enhancing Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
Everyone remembers lining up in the hallways of elementary schools for fire drills, but these safety drills aren’t just appropriate for young children. According to a report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, at least 116 fatalities in 2012 were related to fires in the workplace.
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) provides business owners with valuable safety tips that will help to keep employees from becoming one of the estimated 5,000 workers injured each year, as well as reduce the estimated $2.3 billion in property damage caused by fires annually.
Reducing Crime and Potential for Violence
In addition to accidents and fire-related injuries, Recent numbers from OSHA suggest that at least 2 million workers in U.S. experience violence in the workplace each year. With many cases likely unreported, the potential for experiencing violence at work may impact a worker’s feelings of safety whether he works at a desk in an office building or on an assembly line at a manufacturing plant.
Developing a crime prevention program in any type of workplace requires attention to a full range of security devices and procedures. Most premises benefit from installation of an access door and systems that prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas. Georgia security systems equipped with security cameras and alarms that signal security breaches are essential tools for keeping a workplace safe.
Maintaining a Clean Environment
Maintaining a clean environment is also important in workplace safety. Dirty machinery may become dangerous and suffer malfunctions, which presents a danger to employees. Likewise, an environment that is not cleaned on a regular basis may create a breeding ground for bacteria and impact employee health. Employees who are sick and can’t work cost the company money.
Although proper safety in the workplace requires time and investment from a company, looking into government resources for employee safety and installing comprehensive Georgia security systems are the best options for creating a safe work environment. Protect business investment, improve employee satisfaction and enhance company profits through a broad health and safety plan.