Did you know that there were over 5,000 fatal work-related injuries in the United States in 2019?
Education about workplace safety topics and guidelines can prevent these injuries from happening and maintain a secure work environment.
In this article, we’re breaking down five essential workplace safety tips for ensuring a safe and productive work shift!
- Wear Safety Equipment
Wearing safety equipment at all times is the first step to ensure that you and your workers remain safe on the job.
Even if you are not actively completing a task, wear your safety gear if you are on the work floor. Depending on the product you produce, your safety gear may include protective goggles, gloves, boots, hats, face masks, vests, or coats.
Consult workplace safety posters for the particular safety gear that your workplace requires.
- Exercise Proper Use of Tools, Machinery, and Equipment
Misuse and neglect of heavy machinery is the leading cause of workplace-related injury in the United States.
To prevent yourself or others from injury, only use equipment in the way it is intended to be used. Do not cut corners by using a machine for multiple purposes.
Find more info here to review the different types of machines and their safety guidelines.
Thoroughly and consistently complete maintenance inspections. Correctly turn machinery on and off before and after each use. Clean equipment regularly as well to maintain workplace health and safety.
- Minimize the Risk of Fire Hazards
Fire safety in the workplace is very important. A workplace safety tip to prevent fires is to eliminate possible fire hazards from the work floor.
Store combustible materials in a designated space away from heat sources and other incendiaries. When working with flammable material, only take out of storage what you immediately need.
Also, work in small batches to prevent volatile compounds from reacting with nearby sources of ignition.
A dangerous source of ignition that is often not thought about is dust.
Did you know that if at least 5% of a surface is covered in 0.8 millimeters of dust, an explosion can occur? Dust is flammable, so ensure that it does not catch fire by cleaning your area frequently and properly storing combustibles.
- Maintain Accessibility of Workspaces and Emergency Exits
Another way to maintain workplace safety is by making sure that your workspace is clear and accessible.
Avoid clutter that can become hazardous in the case of an emergency. Keep exits clear and ensure you have direct, unblocked access to emergency shutoffs.
If you have to walk around an object to complete a task, it will easily become a tripping hazard in the event of an emergency.
Keep spaces clear and remove clutter to ensure the safety and productivity of you and your colleagues.
- Communicate With Supervisors Regularly
It is important to keep in regular contact with your supervisors and keep them updated about what is happening on the work floor.
If someone seems tired or otherwise impaired, communicate this concern to them and your supervisors. Many workplace-related injuries are the result of impaired workers becoming inattentive and sloppy.
It is also important to communicate working conditions to your supervisors. Report high temperatures, unknown noises, smells, or vibrations, and other abnormalities to supervisors immediately.
If you have a safety concern, regardless of what it is about, always inform your supervisors.
Follow These Workplace Safety Tips To Ensure an Efficient Working Environment
When workplace safety is prioritized, the work floor becomes efficient, secure, and healthy for employees.
And when employees are healthy and safe, it’s always a good day at work!
For more information about how you can ensure your safety and welfare in the workplace, check out our health tab!
