Today it is more important than ever for workplace managers to safeguard their employeesâ health and safety on the job. Managers have to discover and use safeguards and procedures that ensure the physical protection and welfare of their workers, and if an accident does occur the managers have to be able to do whatever is appropriate and necessary. The following protocols should be considered.
- Involve your employees.
A safe and healthy workplace requires the full commitment of every person and organisation; so be sure to have opportunities for your employees to be a part of this initiative. Every employee has to know that the management is dedicated to occupational safety and health, and every staff member has the ability and responsibility to act in the organisation’s best interests.
- Make workplace safety a top priority.
Check out the workplace health and safety legislation that governs your area. Many industries are using industrial dust exhaust fans to develop healthy atmosphere in the premises. Let your employees know what these requirements are and give them the necessary training as well as clearly show them your dedication to providing them a healthy and totally safe work environment.
- Prevent potential problems before they can happen.
Keep records of procedures and carefully train employees to follow them. Begin as early as your staff introduction program. A study conducted in Australia, conducted by the Australian Institute of Management, showed that it is about six times more costly not to train new employees than to train them. This finding would be on the conservative side when the expenses resulting from an accident is included. Outfit your workplace with the newest in safety equipment like a dust and fume extractor or ventilation system, if necessary, as it will almost always be a good investment.
- If an accident happens, take action immediately.
Be sure the documented procedures are followed closely during an accident. Your first concern is to ensure the safety and health of customers and staff. After the accident has been dealt with, look over the procedures and decide if any changes should be made to improve accident prevention in the future. Always keep detailed records of incidents in case of workers compensation claims, future corrective actions, or even litigation. Provide rehabilitation if necessary, and recognise staff that made good decisions during and coping with the incident.
Organisations that focus on improving health and safety in the workplace have earned rewards that greatly surpassed their expectations. They make gains including improved industrial relations, enhanced productivity, created a more skilled workforce, increased cost effectiveness, and help their employees make better, more informed decisions.