This April 28th marks the 22nd annual observance of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, also known as Occupational Health and Safety Day. This day was created by the International Labor Association to draw attention to workplace safety.
So what are some best practices to keep safety top of mind?
Make sure your organization is OSHA compliant.
OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, was started in 1970 to protect employees in the workplace. Being compliant with OSHA regulations for workplace safety reduces risk to everyone who works there, decreasing potential injury and legally protecting your company. All the following steps contribute to having an OSHA-compliant workplace.
Have a safety plan & report all accidents and emergencies.
No matter what environment you’re working in, whether it’s in an office, factory, or out in the field, a safety plan is key for when there’s a fire, medical emergency, equipment malfunction, or other unexpected event. Call OSHA about any serious workplace injuries requiring more than a first-aid kit.
Wear PPE & inspect for hazards.
If you’re in a riskier workspace like a lab or factory, it’s crucial that employees are wearing the proper PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) for their position, whether that’s safety glasses, close-toed shoes, or a safety vest. The workplace should also be regularly inspected for hazards—broken equipment, improperly stored chemicals, trip hazards, or other possible dangers.
Educate your workers about safety in the workplace.
OSHA posters should be hung in prominently. It’s also important to provide safety training—for example, the BlueVolt Course Library offers both general safety courses on OSHA compliance and recognizing hazards, as well as courses on both specific equipment, like crane or ladder safety. According to a 2021 survey with over a thousand respondents, companies providing at least 20 hours of safety training per year are 68% more likely to have employees follow the safety protocols in the workplace.
Conclusion
When you follow these and other safety measures, especially those as defined by OSHA, your organization will run more smoothly and you’ll be keeping your employees safe.
To learn more about safety courses in the BVCL, reach out *here* today!
OSHA: Home | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov)
