Did you know that there were over 2.8 million workplace accidents in 2019? The most common injuries include muscle, ligament, and tendon sprains, strains, and tears as well as soreness and pain, and cuts, bruises, or lacerations.
While the vast majority of these injuries are minor, there were also over 1,000 fatal workplace injuries in 2019 as well. Most of these workplace injuries are preventable and are due to errors with workplace safety. Read on to learn about the most common workplace hazards and how to improve workplace safety.
1. Improper or Lack of Training
Safety is impossible if employees are not properly trained. They need to be trained in how to operate machines, best practices in safety, ad what to do in the event of an injury.
Training shouldn’t be a “one and done” type of thing either. Regular reviews of safety protocols and reminders of the safety procedures should happen on an annual basis. Online safety training is an easy way to do this.
2. Not Keeping the Space Clean and Organized
A clean and organized workplace is often a safer workplace. Ensuring that things are clean, equipment is cleaned between uses, and any loose materials are put away and organized can go a long way to keep things safe.
Not only does cleaning keep employees safe, but it also helps keep the equipment in good shape and extends their life.
3. Failing to Use Personal Protective Equipment
Employees need access to proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and they also need to know how and when to use it. Whether it be eye protection, gloves, hard hats, or a mask, PPE must be readily available and the rules strictly enforced.
Supervisors and managers need to ensure that employees are wearing the PPE as required and need to take it seriously if someone violates the rules regarding PPE.
4. Ignoring “Near Misses”
“Near misses” happen when an injury or other issue almost happens but does not. Instead of ignoring these, employers should use them as teaching tools. Just because you were able to avoid the accident or injury doesn’t mean that it couldn’t be prevented.
Keep track of any of these, identify the cause, and try to address it so the near misses don’t become actual injuries.
5. Not Providing Clear Safety Instructions and Signs
Clear signs with reminders about safety protocols, safety equipment that is well-labeled and easily accessible, and signage with safety protocols should be posted around your workplace. Don’t overcomplicate things, but do make sure that plenty of reminders are available and provide clear instructions if employees should forget what the process is.
Avoid These Errors With Workplace Safety Precautions
While it is virtually impossible to prevent all workplace accidents, you can prevent many of them with proper training and following best practices. Avoid these errors with workplace safety plans, training, and visual signs reminding employees of proper safety precautions. A little prevention can go a long way.
Need more information on workplace safety? We can help. Explore some of our other articles before you go!