It is your responsibility to provide a safe working environment for your employees. Although there will always be some form of hazards in any place of employment, there are some measures that you can adopt to ensure that the people who work to keep your business moving forward are protected from any possible harm.
Here are some common causes of injuries in the workplace:
Electrical Accidents
This is more common among those who work with electrical problems or machinery with heavy electrical usage. However, it can also happen anywhere, even in offices.
Electrical accidents may range from a small shock to a major shock that may lead to burns or fatality.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the most common cause of electrical accidents in the United Kingdom is an unsafe system of work. Inadequate information, no training and unsafe rules also endanger the lives of employees.
You can prevent electrical accidents from happening by providing proper equipment to your employees, adequate training, and creating clear and easy to follow policies. In addition, get EICR for properties. Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) should be secured periodically to find faulty wiring and installation that may compromise safety.
Chemical Hazards
People who work with dangerous chemicals are at risk of burns from direct exposure or through fires or explosions. Inhalation of fumes may also cause serious respiratory problems.
Injuries resulting from chemicals are less common. The danger is only present in industries where workers handle chemicals regularly.
To minimise the risks of burns and inhalation, workers should be provided with the right equipment. This includes wearing a special garment designed to protect their skin and to prevent them from breathing in toxic gases.
In addition, chemicals should be stored safely. Anyone who is tasked to handle chemicals should have the right qualifications to do so. They need to be told of the risks and they should be able to follow safety practices in the workplace.
Injuries from Heavy Lifting
In jobs that involve the transport of an item from one place to another without using machinery, workers are at risk of experiencing a strain or sprain. Complaints of chronic back pain are also common in this line of work.
To protect workers, business owners should invest in equipment that can help carry a heavy load. Look into cranes, forklift trucks, lifting belts and other tools to move items. Workers should also be taught proper lifting techniques to prevent injuries and long-term health consequences.
Slips and Falls
This is the most common cause of injury in the workplace, whether in the manufacturing site or at the office. A spilt liquid, unhidden electrical cord, clutter left on the floor, and others can cause an employee to slip or trip, resulting in a painful fall. Injuries may include bruises, cuts, strains, and sprains.
Preventive measures should include the purchase of proper warning signages, availability of cleaning materials, proper reporting of potential hazards, and regular maintenance. Employees should also be advised to clean their workstations and remove clutter on the floor.
These tips will not completely eliminate the risks of injuries in the workplace. However, knowing the common accidents may help you anticipate and adapt preventive measures that minimise any risk.
