Every seven seconds in America, someone is injured in the workplace. Furthermore, no industry is protected from the possibility of workplace accidents. Fortunately, many accidents and injuries in the workplace can be prevented. If you’re an employer, here are four workplace safety actions you can start right away.
1. Keep your site uncluttered.
No matter what kind of business you have, it’s too easy for things to pile up and create an unsafe atmosphere: equipment, boxes, merchandise and more. As an employer, it’s reasonable for you to require employees to keep their workspaces clear of clutter and spills; however, it’s your responsibility to keep common areas, floors and walkways clear of hazardous materials and debris. Failing to do this can result in accidents, injuries and liabilities.
2. Make sure fire safety equipment is up to code.
At the bare minimum, your workplace should have the appropriate number of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire sprinklers. If your equipment is more than five years old, it’s time to think about upgrading it to photoelectric sensor alarms for faster fire detection – and if the alarms are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them entirely per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines.
3. Prevent repeat motion injuries.
Office buildings and low-activity jobs aren’t immune to workplace injuries. Repetitive motion injuries are not necessarily caused by lifting heavy objects; instead, many of them are caused by the tasks that employees do all day at their workstations: typing, clicking a mouse, holding tools, and other small motor skill tasks your employees do on a daily basis. Prevent these injuries by providing more ergonomic equipment and encouraging employees to take breaks when needed.
4. Install smart locks, wireless cameras and other security technology.
Of course, there is security technology that can help your employees stay safe on the job. Smart locks, which use a numeric code or key fob to lock and unlock doors, can play a big role in preventing intrusion and other security concerns. Since 50% of all workplace burglaries occur through an unlocked door, this is an important upgrade.
Meanwhile, installing wireless cameras can help employers:
- Monitor workspaces to confirm employees are following safety guidelines.
- Gain awareness to identify when safety guidelines have been violated.
- Avoid future injuries by implementing new protocols for prevention.
With a wireless camera system, employers can view live video feed or clips of other past activity on their smartphones. This helps you stay aware of what’s going on whether you’re onsite or off.
By taking these safety actions now, you can prevent workplace injury and meet higher standards as an employer. To learn more about smart locks, wireless cameras and other technology that can provide a safer workplace, give us a call.
About IDS Alarm Services, Inc.
As an experienced security integrator, IDS Alarm Services, Inc. has served clients in the Southeast U.S. since 1990. Their innovative product offerings include Access Control, Fire Alarms, Network Wiring, Security Systems, and Video Surveillance. Contact us today if you have any questions about adding security or fire alarm systems to your property.
President at IDS Alarm Services
IDS Alarm Services, Inc. has served clients in the Southeast U.S. since 1990. Our innovative product offerings include Access Control, Fire Alarms, Network Wiring, Security Systems, and Video Surveillance.
Latest posts by Jay Lassiter (see all)
- Essentials for Church Security Planning - August 4, 2023
- Improving Your Business Security This Year - February 1, 2023
- A Guide to Office Automation and Security - January 18, 2023