How Can I Promote the Safety of My Employees?
Running a business has many facets that are important for survival. One of the most valuable things you can do for your company is to establish a safety protocol that everyone is required to follow. The safety and health of your workers are vital. Each situation is unique, and you must consider the hazards in your workspace as well as the size of your operation. If you’re starting or you need to enhance your safety program already in place, here are some things to consider.
Signs and Markers
In a warehouse setting, signs are imperative for safety. For instance, if you have a lane that is designated for forklifts, then you need to identify this space so that others can stay out of it. Whenever there is a danger, mark it with a sign. Employees will become accustomed to the hazards in their workspace, but there are always visitors and new workers that are not used to the routine. By using customized signs and markers, you can lower your accident rate, which will improve your Bureau of Worker’s Compensation insurance rates.
Implement Safety Protocols
Defining safety guidelines should start from the beginning; however, it’s never too late to incorporate new rules. All employees must be expected to follow the requirements set forth by the administration. You must also “practice what you preach” because your employees will follow your lead. If you don’t follow the protocols of wearing safety glasses and hair nets in the warehouse, they will follow suit. Some companies find it beneficial to work with a specialist and go through the demands of each role in the company and identify the possible safety risks. Safety first should be your motto, and you must take a firm hand on anyone who negates these responsibilities.
Personalize Training
Experts suggest that each employee goes through a training session, which also includes safety protocols because personalized training reduces risk. These mandates must be written so that an employee can check themselves against the company guidelines. Make sure supervisors are constantly monitoring employees to make sure they are doing their job properly and safely. Remember, if you don’t properly train your employees, then you can be held liable for any incidents. Additionally, there can be serious consequences when employees are not using safe behaviors, and you don’t want to lose life or limb from a careless mistake, these rules are not customized for a single person but a personal training for all that work for this company to understand and follow through on day-to-day.
Reward Safe Behavior
One of the best ways to motivate employees is through a reward system. The rewards system can be for a group or an individual, and you can decide the perimeters. If the company goes so many days without an accident, you may choose to offer a celebration or bonus incentive. Remember, it’s beneficial to your bottom line to have a safe and productive environment for your employees to work. Plus, you don’t want anyone getting hurt.
Finally, safety is one area of your business that you cannot overlook. You must have protocols in place, use customized signage for your specific needs, and reward good behavior. By pushing the importance of safety, you will find that your employees will do the same.
Here’s another article you might like: Encouraging a Healthy Work Environment
- On February 10, 2020