Health and safety are important when running a business - yet many of us overlook it. Just what are some signs that your business isn’t paying enough attention to safety? This post lists a few key indicators that you’re not prioritising safety enough.
If employees or customers are regularly injured, this is clearly a sign that health and safety are not adequate. It’s also worth considering near-miss incidents (such as slips and falls) where people could have been injured.
A high rate of RSIs (‘repetitive strain injuries’, which are often sustained over a long period of time) is also a sign that health and safety could be improved. Consider what measures could prevent these accidents and injuries from occurring, and start implementing these measures immediately.
Good quality safety equipment is more likely to prevent accidents. While you don’t have to invest in the most expensive solutions, you should be wary of cheap equipment (particularly used equipment). Choosing popular, trusted brands is a great way to ensure safety. For instance, a Kunkle valve could be a good option when choosing a safety valve, given that they are such a renowned brand.
Safety inspections can help you to identify hazards affecting your business. Some safety inspections are required by law, while others are recommended. If you’re not carrying out any safety inspections, this could be a sign that you’re not paying enough attention to safety. A few safety audits that could be worth carrying out include:
Some safety inspections can be carried out by either you or a staff member, while others may require a licensed professional. For a detailed guide on safety inspections, consider this article at Fluix.
Each of your employees should be receiving basic health and safety training. Even if your employees are doing nothing but sitting at an office desk, there could still be things to consider, such as fire drills or training employees how to use a step ladder in a stock cupboard.
Even if the risk of an incident occurring seems low, providing safety training could be important for a) showing employees you take their well-being seriously and b) preventing injuries or lawsuits in the event an accident does occur.
Many companies introduce safety rules such as putting up a wet floor sign when mopping or asking workers to wear a high-vis jacket and gloves - but they don’t enforce them. Very quickly, you can end up with employees not following these rules.
This can become an issue if an incident occurs and a lawsuit is filed against you - while you may be able to prove that you’ve set rules in a contract, evidence that you have not been enforcing them could still be used against you. So make sure that you are enforcing every rule you introduce.
Prioritizing health and safety is an ethical obligation and a smart business strategy. By addressing these red flags and fostering a safety-conscious culture, businesses can create a more secure and productive work environment for everyone. Remember, investing in safety is investing in your employees, reputation, and the company's long-term success.