Workplace safety is an important matter. We spend a lot of time in the workplace so it’s essential to feel safe there. If employees don’t feel safe at work, it is bound to affect their productivity.
So here are a few ways that big businesses can ensure employee safety:
1. Create Awareness
Teaching awareness is a positive approach for a team as it helps address potential an
d upcoming dangers before they become a problem. Paying attention to unusual and suspicious behavior helps in identifying the odds. You should inquire or report any unusual happenings. Motivate your employees to do the same.
2. Develop a Strategic Plan
You should make employees understand what needs to be done in case of a crisis. The plan should be made with the help of a legal team or counselor.
3. Appoint a Designated Health and Safety Officer
Appoint a designated team member to manage the company’s health and safety activities. Big businesses tend to have high-risk activities such as planning large events. You may have to hire full-time members with relevant knowledge, experience, and skills to manage your company’s safety and health obligations.
4. Create a Health and Safety Policy
Drafting a health and safety policy for your company is an essential step in lowering potential risks. It will keep the officer you appoint focused and let your team members know that you are committed to their safety. They will also know what is expected of them when it comes to behaving during incidents and reporting them.
5. Designate an Emergency Exit
It is important to designate emergency exits. All employees should be familiarized with these exits in case of an alarming situation. Exit signs should be marked properly and clearly.
6. Do Mock Drills
Developing a plan is not enough for employee safety. You should plan mock drills at least once in six months to alert and train your employees.
7. Maintain the Building
It’s important to maintain the building of your workplace. Get the management to inspect the building regularly and make any necessary improvements. Small safety measures like adding mats to avoid slipping can make your employees feel safe.
8. Streamline HR Policies
Policies and regulations help maintain decorum in the workplace. Companies should incorporate the necessary policies and regulations. A policy manual on Sexual Harassment should also be created.
9. Keep a Record of Visitors
Come up with a proper procedure to record the entry of visitors into the office premises. Check identification of the visitors and take necessary steps before allowing access to the person.
10. Get Insurance
Lastly, you should get insurance as it protects you if someone gets injured or sick while working for your company.
Mitigating workplace hazards can be affordable. It’s in your company’s best interest to maintain the safety of its employees. Your business should be seen as protecting the community. So follow these tips to secure your workplace!
