4 Workplace Safety Tips Every Employee Should Know
Workplace safety is critical, and for every frontline worker, it will likely be ranked high amongst their top necessities. According to recent workplace safety statistics, 1.7 million people suffered a work-related illness, while approximately 441,000 sustained an injury in the workplace. Even the best safety guidelines and practises would do little good if your employees aren’t aware of or interested in following them. Therefore, every employee needs to know safety tips. Here are a few
- Keep the right posture
There is a reason you are advised to “lift your legs and not your back.” Lifting heavy items the wrong way can cause injury. To avoid this, it is advisable to keep your back straight when lifting such items. It can be useful to use some minutes to find a lifting aid if you think the item may be too heavy. If possible, get a partner to assist you rather than doing it all by yourself. However, keeping the right postures goes beyond employees who regularly lift heavy items in the workplace. You should also ensure you have a good sitting posture if you work at the desk to avoid neck or back problems.
- Report unsafe work conditions
While the employer’s responsibility is to ensure a safe working environment, the effort to repair hazardous conditions to prevent any injuries begins with you. Employees need to report an unsafe condition they notice to their managers and ensure they are rectified immediately. You should speak up on everything that concerns your safety, from the workplace flooring to the lack of proper safety gear, shaky ladders, cracks, and so on. For example, statistics have shown tripping and slipping as the most common cause of injuries in the workplace. Epoxy flooring is an excellent choice to ensure workplace safety. However, it is helpful to consider the various types of epoxy flooring to find the right one for your workplace.
- Prioritise taking regular breaks
Regular breaks are important, which is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has made it a requirement for workplaces. Workers are more exposed to injuries when tired since they become less aware of their environment. However, taking regular breaks is vital for keeping you refreshed and alert. While you may not be accustomed to taking breaks, some automated scheduling apps encourage breaks to get some fresh air, stretch, take a brief walk, or any short activity that keeps you relaxed and eases stress.
- Manage work-related stress
While studies have established linked work-related stress to burnout, health problems, accidents, and so on, you want to take proactive measures to properly manage anything that may interfere with your wellbeing and productivity. It can be useful to identify physical and emotional risks that interfere with your ability to concentrate or work safely in the workplace. According to a recent survey, more than 40% of employees feel helpless and grappled with their lives affected by the ongoing pandemic. However, you can speak to your employer on issues affecting your well-being and performance ability.
