Ouch! Going to work can hurt. In fact, every day, more than 30,000 workers are injured at work or develop occupational illnesses. And these injuries come at a high cost. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, our nation’s top 10 workplace injuries cost us an estimated $55.4 billion each year. In this month’s HR Synergy blog, we share 10 tips for preventing workplace accidents and injuries.
Most Workplace Accidents and Injuries are Preventable
Research tells us that most workplace injuries are preventable. In fact, very few injuries are the result of unavoidable accidents caused by technical problems like equipment failure.
Preventing Workplace Accidents and Injuries
Employers can prevent most workplace accidents and injuries by:
- Establishing and enforcing safety policies and procedures. This should include all OSHA rules and regulations, as well as any additional safety procedures and precautions appropriate to your specific industry or workplace.
- Instructing employees on how to report concerns about unsafe or hazardous conditions.
- Developing clear repercussions for supervisors and employees who do not follow established safety policies and procedures.
- Providing employees with adequate safety training and equipment. Note that some employee training may need to be ongoing, or require regular updates or “refreshers.”
- Ensuring that anyone who is operating power equipment or exposed to hazardous materials has received adequate training on usage and handling.
- Following government rules regarding safe usage, storage, and cleanup of hazardous materials.
- Prohibiting employees from working if they are tired or in danger of overexertion.
- Conducting routine safety inspections.
- Training all employees on what to do in an emergency. This may include annual practice drills.
- Educating employees on the importance of proper workplace ergonomics.
“Safety policies and procedures should be clearly defined in a safety manual, which should be accessible to all employees. It’s also important to engage your employees in the development and enforcement of your safety policies and procedures,” says HR Synergy President Michelle Gray.
By following the tips outlined above, you will have a healthier, more productive workforce, and may reduce your overall workers’ compensation costs.
Outsourced HR Solutions for NH Businesses and Nonprofits
Need help developing your organization’s safety policies and procedures? Contact the professionals at HR Synergy. We provide outsourced HR Solutions—from policy development, to risk assessment, to labor law compliance and more—for NH businesses and nonprofits.