A 2009 report from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics revealed 3.7 million workplace accidents in 2008. More than half of the accidents were serious injuries requiring time off from work or modification of job duties. No amount of preparation will prevent all accidents from occurring. However, adhering to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, or OSHA, recommendations will lower the occurrence of work place injuries. The actions of a each individual employee contributes to the safety of a workplace. Employers who engage their employees in the safety process reduce the likelihood of an accident.
Step 1
Identify potential hazards in the work environment. OSHA recommends conducting a job hazard analysis. Go through the processes required to complete each job. Ask employees to identify potential hazards. Review records of past accident occurrences to reveal safety issues. Detail in a report the outcome of the hazard analysis. List the hazards, potential consequences and hazard triggers.
Step 2
Take preventative action to correct the hazards identified within the job hazard analysis. Replace or repair defective equipment. Change the process for job functions that may result in injury. Correct the most hazardous job conditions first.
Step 3
Establish a clear and concise workplace safety policy. Introduce the safety policy to management and staff. Establish a method of enforcing the policy. Do not allow employees to break policy rules without disciplinary action.
Step 4
Engage employees in a safety program. Encourage employees to report unsafe or hazardous conditions. Train employees on safe workplace practices. Teach employees about proper body mechanics and ergonomics required for their job. Post signs within the workplace reminding employees of the importance of workplace safety.
Step 5
Form a workplace safety committee. Appoint representatives from each department to the committee. Include members of management and general staff. Instruct the committee to meet on a regularly scheduled basis to discuss safety practices and concerns.
Step 6
Hire a safety engineer or risk manager. Instruct the safety engineer to establish a regular schedule to inspect the workplace for new safety concerns.
References
- Bureau of Labor And Statistics: Workplace Injuries And Illness--2008
- Occupational Safety And Health Administration: Job Hazard Analysis
- Occupational Safety And Health Administration: Elements Of An Effective Safety And Health Program
- Personnel Policy Service, Inc.: The Americans With Disabilities Act
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