How important is occupational health and safety?

Occupational health and safety. First of all – what is it?

Well – it deals with all health, safety and welfare of those that are in employment. Its main job is to deal with safeguarding the lives of people who are connected with ANY work environment. Its other concern is with the welfare of the family members and dependents of those working employees.

We spend a major part of our lives at the workplace. We use our skills and expertise and give our time and energies for the benefit of that organisation. We donate our time and effort for that company. Most of us need – and deserve – to be motivated by being provided with a positive atmosphere, and, most importantly, safety and security at work.

Why is workplace safety important?

All employees deserve to work in a safe and protected atmosphere. Health and safety is the key to a successful organisation, and it is the duty and moral responsibility of the company to look after its employees.

Every person who leaves home for work in the morning should expect to return home in good health, with no injuries. In our present time, workplace health and safety procedures are important for both employees and their employers. A loss of life or injury can leave devastating loss to the company – and immeasurable loss to the family of the victim.

What can you do to improve occupational health at work?

You can follow some simple steps to improving your employees’ occupational health. Here are some examples:

Make staff aware of their surroundings.

There are many workers who don’t bother to find about the hazards surrounding them. It is extremely important to know about your fellow employees’ working habits and circumstances. Once you are familiar with the hazards that may occur at your workplace, it will help you to take steps to reduce the risk of accidents.

Reduce the workplace stress.

Many employees’ health is at risk because of their busy schedule at work, which includes long working hours, work pressure and conflicts that may occur with managers or co-workers. This can, if not managed, lead to illness or depression in some cases. This can also affect personal lives if things get too much. It’s better to start taking care of your health at work now – regular breaks, a better sitting posture and a good diet will help to reduce workplace stress.

Use tools correctly.

It’s important to use machinery and tools correctly, and not take any shortcuts. Don’t take shortcuts, for example not reading the instructions before you use a power tool, or not securing yourself when using moving machinery. It is always recommended that your employees use tolls and machinery correctly – reducing the risk of workplace injury.

Make your manager aware of unsafe conditions.

It’s important to keep your manager updated about any hazards or risks that may occur at your workplace. A supervisor is legally required to ensure that their employees are working in a safe environment. If the working conditions are not safe, it is the responsibility of the manager to take note and understand how to create a safe working environment for their employees.

Use assistance when possible.

Whenever it is suitable, you should use mechanical assistance to ensure that your job or task is made easier. Make sure that you use the appropriate tools so as to not harm yourself and to ensure safety.

Wear the correct safety equipment (PPE).

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is very important for an employee’s safety. This equipment can be in any guise, from earplugs, earmuffs, hard hats and gloves to full-face masks, safety gloves and helmets. It is best to find out which equipment you need to undertake your specific job. They will help to prevent workers from any extra incidents which may otherwise happen at your workplace.

Safety first.

Health and Safety is one of the most important factors in any worksite – and is the full responsibility of the managers and business owners. They have to legally ensure that their employees are working in a safe environment. It is best practice to involve employees, with the suggestions above, to improve all safety at work.

So – is occupational health and safety important?

Yes – absolutely. If it means the difference between ensuring your employees’ safety and risking their wellbeing, then it’s an easy decision. Make sure your occupational health is updated, improved and discussed whenever possible.

What if you have exhausted all avenues?

If you have followed the steps above, and you still don’t see an improvement in your occupational health, then it may be more effective to try an improved strategy. What about using technology?

ZoneSafe – a positive solution

ZoneSafe specialises in workplace safety technology. Working with customers to reduce collision risks between forklifts and personnel, we develop effective safety management solutions using innovative products.

With a unique modular system, we specialise in the implementation and installation of safety products, using active RFID detection technology. We also manage mitigation of risk using a cloud-based management software solution.

Visit www.zonesafe.net to find out more.

Protect your staff from accidental collisions with forklifts.