Workplace injuries and illnesses can take a severe toll on the profitability and performance of companies both large and small. Companies in high population areas like Chelsea are especially vulnerable to these losses. In New York State in 2017, there were 203,100 recordable cases of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. These problems affected up to 2.8 percent of all employees, including state and local government. This figure is down by 0.7 percent since 2007, but more work is necessary to reduce the incidence of workplace-related injuries.
When workplace safety measures are not in place, workers have a greater risk of becoming injured or ill on the job. Every industry, from manufacturing to service occupations, needs to pay attention to the safety needs of its workers. The New York industry with the highest incidence of nonfatal injuries and illnesses in 2017 was health care, with 12.1 percent of all workers reporting these adverse events.
When Chelsea employees are injured or contract illnesses on the job, productivity suffers. This can directly affect the bottom line of any type of company. Training replacement workers, whether on a permanent or temporary basis, can be an expensive proposition. Workplace safety directly affects a business’s profitability.
Fortunately, there are concrete steps that employers of all types can take to promote the safety and health of their workers. Safety companies like US Standard Products exist for the sole purpose of trying to help companies of all sizes and in all industries come into compliance.
1. Be Aware of Surroundings
Workers in every industry need to be careful when going about their daily tasks. Being aware of the possible risks in your industry is a crucial step in promoting workplace safety. Workplace safety officers should regularly meet with employees to make sure that everyone is aware of the hazards. Ignorance can lead to serious illness or injury.Subscribe
If a coworker is doing something unsafe, it is important for individual employees to speak up. Everyone needs to work together to promote workplace safety.
2. Be Careful with Tools
One of the riskiest activities in the workplace is working with tools. Using the incorrect tool for the job can lead to problems. People need to be fully trained with the tools they are using, and they need to use safety equipment like gloves and goggles for maximum benefit.
3. Reduce Stress
Stressed and overtired employees are more likely to be injured or to contract workplace-related illnesses. As much as possible, reduce unnecessary stress on your employees. Make sure that they are getting enough breaks and that they have ergonomically correct work areas. Even the most sedentary jobs can have risks related to repetitive stress, including carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Promote Safe Exits
Make sure that your business has easily accessible exits. Clearly mark these exits with visible signage and make sure that your employees are aware of their location. This will be invaluable if there is a fire or another type of emergency in your workplace. It is also important that these exits be kept clear, with equipment and desks well out of the way.
5. Wear Safety Equipment
While most Chelsea employees in dangerous occupations use safety equipment like hard hats, gloves, masks, and eye protection, some employees will be recalcitrant and refuse to use these measures. These employees should be appropriately disciplined, and in some cases should be let go. The risk of bodily injury without these measures in place is unacceptable. These employees pose a risk to themselves and their coworkers alike.
6. Be Aware of Alcohol and Drugs on the Job
Employees should be cautioned about the dangers of using alcohol and drugs before and during shifts. These substances can cause impairment and poor judgment. Employees should receive random drug testing, and those who do not pass should be let go. Employees under the influence can cause extremely unsafe conditions not only for themselves but for others.
7. Use Mechanical Assistance
Employees who are tasked with lifting heavy objects should be given mechanical assistance. Forklifts and other equipment can help to prevent repetitive stress injuries as well as more catastrophic injuries. This equipment needs to be carefully managed since it can present its own risks to employee safety.
Workplace Safety is Paramount
Every employer needs to pay attention to workplace safety. When supervisors and employees work together, they can solve the problems that lead to injuries and illnesses. An application of common sense is the best way to start solving safety problems. Employees who take needless risks or endanger others should be disciplined or let go. Safety companies like US Standard Products can help any Chelsea business succeed and keep its employees as safe and healthy as possible.