There is always an array of equipment, machinery, and tools employed to increase efficiency and make work easier at any workplace. Therefore, your employees may be exposed to certain workplace hazards in the day to day work. The hazards include handling dangerous chemicals, operation of machinery, and hazardous electronic and electrical equipment.
Most employees are attracted to work in an injury and accident-free environment. As an employer, you have the responsibility to make the workplace safe. You can do this by putting in place strategies that mitigate the risk of accidents to your employees. Below are ways you can promote safety in the workplace.
Safe Use and Maintenance of Equipment
As an employer, you legally must ensure workplace equipment are safe and in good working condition. Your employees should use the right tools that are suitable for the job. You should also ensure equipment is inspected regularly for any malfunction due to wear and tear as this may compromise their safe use. Old equipment must either be disposed of or repaired to working condition. You do not want to be using old equipment that could cause an accident.
Proper Safety Training for Employees
Training employees on safety is an integral part of any workplace safety program to protect employees from accidents. Some machinery is dangerous and requires technical skills to operate safely. For instance, scissor lifts involved when working at heights require specialized safety training to operate. Apart from leading to structural and equipment damage, scissor lift accidents can also result in personal injuries. Consequently, any scissor lift hire company is required to employ highly trained and licensed operators. In addition, ensure your scissor lift hire platforms are well maintained and get serviced each time they are rented. Due to heights, scissor lifts work up to 30 meters, but they must be operated on even grounds to avoid tipping off and have sturdy guardrails in place to prevent workers from falling.
Hazard Assessments and Management
You can do this by identifying equipment and other aspects in the workplace that are likely to pose risks. You can hire risk assessment specialists to scrutinize risks caused by equipment and personal protective equipment when working at elevation, among many others. Once areas likely to pose potential risks are identified, you must initiate steps geared towards formulating safety policies. Your employees are then encouraged to abide by the rules to minimize the risks.
Ensure Use of Protective Safety Equipment
Where employees work in environments that may expose them to hazards that may lead to injury, you should provide necessary protective gear. The personal protective equipment should be of good quality, design, and well-fitting to offer the protection needed.
There is nothing as motivating to an employee as the assurance of working in a safe environment. You should always ensure your employers are working in a secure environment. While you are responsible for promoting workplace safety, you should encourage your employees to adhere to safety rules at the workplace.
