Whatever business you are in, and however well you run your operations, both you and your workers are exposed to hazards every day. While some industries are intrinsically more dangerous than others, every organisation deals with clutter, cables and chemicals. And, not only do workplace hazards put the health and safety of your workers at risk, but they can cost you greatly. The only way to reduce the risk of workplace hazards is to be aware. That means identifying hazards in the workplace and putting mitigation measures in place.
Before you can identify hazards, however, you need to know what you’re looking for. They come in many forms and create varying levels of health and safety risk. However, the vast majority of them, and certainly the most common, fall under the following five areas.
1. Mess and Clutter
Safety hazards are easily caused by clutter in the workplace. When objects block aisles and fire exits, they can have major consequences in the event of an emergency. And, clutter doesn’t just get in the way when there is an emergency. If your workplace is untidy, then trip hazards can easily lead to injuries. Meanwhile, unsecured cords are enough to get anyone in a tangle. It’s vital to educate your workers to keep the workplace tidy and, of course, to lead by example.
2. Electrics and Wires
If your workers use electrical equipment to carry out their jobs, then they are at risk. And if you think the risk is reserved for engineers and electricians, you need to think again. Anyone who works directly or indirectly with electricity is at risk. Think about people working at computers, extension cords being overloaded or liquids being used near electrical devices. Or, consider one of your workers using power tools to fix a simple problem. Whenever there is electricity involved, there is a potential for injury.
3. Fire
Fire is a risk to every business, no matter what industry it is in. So, it’s vital that every organisation puts prevention measures in place. That means planning regular fire drills and ensuring everyone on site knows where to go and what to do in the event of a fire. You should also know where all your extinguishers are, ensure they are in proper working order and make sure that all of your emergency escape routes are clear of obstruction. By accepting that a fire could happen, you are much better placed to reduce accidents and keep your workers safe.
4. Repetitive Injuries
Repetitive use injuries, otherwise known as ergonomic hazards, may not cause immediate harm, but they can cause long-term problems. It’s extremely common for people to sit incorrectly at a desk, for example. It is your responsibility to reduce the risk of injury by providing the right equipment and helping your workers to sit in the correct position at the right height. Repetitive use injuries can come from anything that workers repeat. As well as typing at a computer, consider whether they carry out the same action, such as lifting heavy items.
5. Working at Heights
If any of your workers operate in an elevated position, they are at risk of falling and getting injured. Anyone working at heights should be given the correct equipment, the likes of hats and harnesses, and should be trained in how to work safely. The other height-related risk is that of falling objects. Any time that objects are stored at or above head level, especially when they are stacked, there is a risk they can fall and cause injury. When you are doing your risk assessment, make sure to look everywhere, including up.
As a business leader, it is your responsibility to make the workplace as safe as possible. That means identifying every type of hazard, be it physical, biological, chemical or ergonomic, and putting prevention measures in place. And, by managing workplace hazards, your workers will be happier, more productive and, most importantly, safer.
