June is National Safety Month, a time to examine your workplace to ensure the well-being of your workforce. Often, companies focus their energies on obvious hazards, as they often seem to pose the biggest threat. However, many seemingly innocuous issues can have serious consequences. As a result, it’s crucial to ensure that those workplace safety risks aren’t overlooked.
Whether you’re an industrial company or have an office environment, here are four workplace safety risks you don’t want to forget about if you’re going to ensure the well-being of your team.
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Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards
Overall, slips, trips, and falls are the most common cause of workplace injuries. Since that’s the case, it’s wise to look for any potential hazards, ensuring they’re addressed quickly.
Wet floors from spills or inclement weather are a common risk. Along with using signage as a warning, make sure there’s an employee available who can handle the issue quickly. Similarly, having deicer available for outdoor areas, nonslip runners, and mats for wiping shoes is essential.
Also, take the time to check walkways for hazards. Loose rugs, cords running across the area, boxes on the floor, and similar items can all be dangerous. Make sure unnecessary items aren’t left in walkways and that any potential trip hazards are addressed.
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Ergonomics-Related Injuries
Poor ergonomics can lead to a variety of physical issues. From general soreness to long-term health issues, incorrect body position is harmful.
Do a workstation review to look for ergonomics issues. This includes chairs that lack support, equipment placed in spots that require odd body movements, poorly positioned computers, and more. If you spot a problem, make an effort to correct it, either by bringing in replacement items or repositioning what’s there to improve overall ergonomics.
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Fire Safety Risks
Fires can happen in any kind of workplace. Whether you’re in an industrial or office environment, review work areas for common risks. Frayed or exposed wiring is a hazard, so replace any cords that are worse for wear.
Make sure any space heaters have auto-off features, particularly if they’re accidentally tipped. Similarly, ensure that any combustible materials aren’t near the heaters, reducing the risk that they’ll catch fire. Finally, make sure sprinklers and extinguishers are in good repair, and check exit routes to ensure they’re clear.
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Indoor Air Quality Issues
Indoor air quality issues can lead to illnesses and injuries. Since that’s the case, it’s wise to ensure any ventilation and climate control systems are checked at least annually for issues. Additionally, replace filters according to the manufacturer’s directions and make sure that any materials that pose a breathing hazard – such as chemicals – are stored in a way that limits exposure.
Ultimately, each of the four risks above is common, and are potentially found in any kind of workplace. By addressing them, you’re seizing an opportunity, ensuring you’re doing what you can to care for the well-being of your workforce.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can improve workplace safety, the team at TempStaff can help. Contact us today.
