Workplace health and safety is as important as any other part of a business. Without the proper procedures in place, you’ll be putting your employees, their livelihood and your businesses’ success on the line.
In this article, we’ll run through the fundamentals of optimising workplace safety, so everyone involved in your business can continue to contribute to its success.
Risk identification and assessment
The first step towards optimising workplace safety is conducting thorough risk assessments. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the later Management of Health and Safety Regulations 1999, employers are required to assess risks to their employees and any others who might be affected by their activities.
This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating the risks associated with them and determining appropriate measures to eliminate or mitigate these risks. A dynamic approach to risk assessment, with regular reviews and updates, ensures that new or evolving risks are promptly addressed.
Employee training and education
A well-informed workforce that’s engaged in the health and safety process is pivotal in enhancing workplace safety. Employers should invest in comprehensive training programs to cover the basics but also tailored to specific risks associated with different job roles and environments.
Providing interactive, engaging sessions and encouraging discussion fosters a culture of safety that drives proactive identification and mitigation of risks.
Safety policies and procedures
With risks evaluated, implementing effective safety protocols is the next critical step. This can be emergency procedures to protect employees, members of the public and buildings, but also ensuring the availability and use of appropriate safety equipment.
Personal protective equipment and advanced safety technology like emergency stop systems and machine guards can reduce the risk and consequences of accidents. Regular maintenance and safety checks of equipment should also be carried out with torches and other investigative equipment to further mitigate the risks.
Incident reporting and investigation
In the event of accidents and emergencies, employing a transparent and efficient system for reporting and investigating incidents is essential. Identifying root causes is key to preventing future occurrences.
Reporting is not only required under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013) but also necessary to foster a safe, secure organisational culture where employees feel comfortable.
Workplace health and safety should be an ongoing process of assessment, evaluation and mitigation. Continuous improvement helps to keep everyone safe and protect the best interests of your business. How could you improve your processes?
