Making your workplace safer

Workplace Safety

0All employees are entitled to work in a safe and protected environment and there are a number of basic regulations workplaces have to abide so it is important to know what these are.

0However, there are other potential accidents waiting to happen in your workplace.

0Here are some hints and tips for you on keeping your workplace safe…

Fire Exit Plans

0Make sure everyone knows what the plans are via training sessions and diagrams.

0Ensure the route is clear of rubbish or obstructions.0Practice is vital so ensure regular mock fire drills are

carried out so staff members are reminded how to get out of the building if a fire should occur.

0Training should also be given on how to deal with a fire if you are there when it starts.

Safety Equipment

0Part of Employment Law is to ensure you are safe at work and this means having the right safety equipment to do your job.

0 If you feel a part of your job needs a piece of safety equipment then ask your boss if there is something you can do to make it safer.

0Even if your job doesn’t need safety equipment, you need to ensure your workplace has basic equipment like a first aid kit, fire blanket etc.

Signage

0 In the UK we are known for our love of signs! 0 In your workplace you should have a number of signs

around showing you where the fire exit is, where the fire extinguishers are and over any hazards.

0 If an accident happens, place a temporary sign over it and if it re-occurs make a more permanent sign and possibly have a training session to educate people.

Training

0 It is important to ensure there are regular training opportunities for staff to learn about safety in the workplace and how to deal with accidents.

0Such training could include:0 First Aid0 Fire Safety Training.0 General Office Safety0 Food Hygiene0 Managing Stress

Safety Co-ordinator

0 It would be beneficial to have an elected safety co-ordinator in the office who can be a port of call if you should need them.

0They should have all the relevant training and be actively involved in improving the safety in the workplace.

0They should also listen to employees concerns and be involved in setting up or running training sessions.

Regular Reviews0Finally, regular reviews are essential to ensure safety in

the workplace is maintained.0The safety co-ordinator should do at least an annual

review by walking around the workplace and ensuring the building is still safe and there are no major concerns or accidents waiting to happen.

0 If concerns are found, they should be addresses as soon as possible.

0Even if you don’t think you have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, it is still important to maintain safety in the workplace.