From 2016 to 2017, 31.2 million working days were lost in the UK due to work-related illness or injury. Fortunately, there are several changes you can make to significantly reduce this number in your business. The most successful companies always have a robust health and safety system. Read on to find out how you can lead the industry with safety procedures.
Specialised and Ergonomic Equipment Prevents Common Injuries
It goes without saying that using the wrong tool for the job is dangerous and increases chances of injury. Engineers require specialised equipment when designing, building or fixing machinery. Everything from pallet trucks to workbenches has its rightful place in a warehouse, and the correct tools should always be available to the employees needing them. Staff should be well trained with equipment and know the correct procedures for using it.
Repetitive strain injuries are one of the most common types of injury in a workplace, but they are easily preventable. Supplying ergonomic equipment where possible helps relieve muscle strains. Workers will be more comfortable and productive as a result. Consider swapping standard workbenches for height adjustable ones to reduce stress on a worker’s body.
[the_grid name=”Workbenches”]
Invest in First Aid at Work Training and First Aid Kits
Do you know where your nearest first aid kit is at work? Who in your workplace has first aid training? Many employees are not made aware of the location of first aid kits and trained staff. Employers should provide first aid equipment and distribute it around the warehouse so that there is always a kit at hand. Every work space should have a minimum number of first-aiders present at any time. People who have first aid training are significantly more confident than those who haven’t!
Use Clear Colour-Coding for Instant Recognition
Clear signage should always be provided by the employer around the factory or warehouse. Bright yellow, orange and white are there to show pedestrian and forklift driving areas, red indicates potential hazards. Fire escape routes should also be clearly marked, and staff made aware of evacuation procedures. Floor tape can also help production in busy factories by marking specific waiting areas for part queues.
Know the Law
Scroll through the links below if you need a bit more information on the actual health and safety legislations.
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – This mainly covers the general duties of the employer and employees. It also outlines the enforcement of these rules.
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – This act includes information for risk assessments and procedures to follow when in danger. It has also got information to follow for unusual cases such as temporary workers and expectant mothers.
- Workplace Health and Safety Regulations 1992 – Contains information about maintaining equipment and requirements for suitable work conditions.
Featured Image: © Luke Air Force Base
