Workplace safety concerns everyone, especially you as a business owner. Just one accident can stall production and leave your company liable for medical costs, punitive damages and regulatory fines. Accident-related legal fees and regulatory actions can threaten your business, making continued operation almost impossible. These seven ways business owners can maintain safety in the workplace can help you establish training and procedures that will keep your company safe and profitable.
1. Face the Facts
As a business owner, you want to control costs, so you might unconsciously overlook safety hazards or think an accident will never happen, with you in control. Truthfully, you probably can find some accident-prone areas of your business and take action to improve their safety. Similarly, you need to know about the materials used in your facility, so you can take steps that provide for proper handling of hazardous substances.
2. Know the law
As a business owner, you have the responsibility to abide by all rules and regulations that apply to your business. Regardless of whether you handle hazardous materials, compliance can make your company a safer place to work.
3. Training your staff
Training offers one of the simplest ways to maintain safety in the workplace. When your employees know the best procedures for daily operations, you have a lower chance of having an incident. Companies such as National Environmental Trainers can help by providing up-to-date training that helps you meet OSHA standards and other requirements. You can choose from several training options, including pre-recorded and on-site training, which will educate your employees about safe practices in the workplace.
4. Think outside the box.
Unexpected circumstances often cause accidents, so if you spend time thinking about what could go wrong at your facility, you can take preventative action that can save lives and money.
5. Enlist employee help
Create an environment where your employees feel comfortable reporting potential hazards. When you make safety a team effort, your workers feel empowered, and your company becomes a better place to work.
6. Review historic Workers Compensation data
Spend some time learning from the past, to build a better future. By examining Workers Compensation claims made by your employees in the past, you might find trends that can indicate an ongoing safety threat within your company. Proactive remedies now can create substantial future savings.
7. Make safety equipment and materials available
Your company should have emergency equipment on hand to combat a fire, material spills, and other emergencies. You should also make sure your employees have access to needed wearable safety gear and material safety data sheets.
These seven ways business owners can maintain safety in the workplace should give you ideas about how you can improve your business environment. Get the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have been a responsible business owner by taking action today to make your business a safe place to work.