Promoting workplace health and safety
When you have to meet a deadline, get caught up in a project, or are working on a budget, workplace safety can easily fall on the back burner. However, in case of an emergency, having a strong culture of workplace health and safety can make a big difference. In such situations, employees should have a firm understanding of what tools and protocols are in place to protect them. What's more, by promoting a culture of wellness, you'll give your employees the knowledge to better avoid injuries and address them more efficiently, leading to a healthier workplace overall. Here are four strategies for encouraging health and safety in the workplace:
1. Provide basic training Certain jobs require first aid and emergency training, but even if no prior safety education is needed, workers should have a basic understanding of what supplies are available. By showing employees the locations of first aid kits, there will be no confusion about where to find bandages and other essential items in case of an emergency. Walk employees through the kits on hand in the workplace, explaining each item and where it resides within the kit.
"Workplace safety can easily be promoted by focusing on collaborative training."
2. Make safety procedures a collaborative effort The Houston Chronicle notes that workplace safety can easily be promoted by making employees invested in training. Provide workers with the opportunity to educate their peers on specific topics such as glove safety, proper eyewear and hearing protection, and first aid, depending on the hazards of your field. Turning mundane reviews into a collaborative activity will help keep health and safety training lighthearted and interesting. What's more, it will give your employees a chance to develop professionally and hone leadership skills.
3. Create a culture of wellness Developing and supporting a culture of workplace wellness will benefit employees in the long run. Remember that full-time employees spend the majority of each workday on the job and that long-term wellness relies on this environment being safe and comfortable. Besides having comprehensive first aid supplies available, the workplace should also be an area in which employees feel that their health is valued. Safe and clean work conditions, adequate lighting, and protocols for heavy lifting are just a few ways to highlight that workplace wellness is a priority.
4. Be an advocate The World Health Organization encourages occupational safety and health advocacy, which can apply to any business from a startup of one or two self-employed individuals to a major corporation. Similarly to creating a culture of wellness, advocacy relies on primary prevention. The WHO notes that by advocating safe and healthy workplaces, businesses can help strengthen public health and help workers lead more productive and satisfying lifestyles. Promoting workplace health and safety relies on making consistent efforts to ensure employees are well-prepared for hazardous situations and mitigating unnecessary risks. This culture requires diligent managers and employers to advocate and encourage the general wellness of their workers.
Occupational Health and Safety best practices allow for you to maintain a safe working environment for you and your employees. Here are some of our resources to help keep your workplace safe and clean:
First Aid Products & Accessories
MFASCO's Make a Kit Tool
Complete First Aid Kit Refill Packs
Reorder Lists for First Aid Kits
Additional Resources for Reordering First Aid Kits & Supplies
Top 8 First Aid Kit Types
What is in a First Aid Kit?
Essential First Aid Kit Supply List
