As a business owner or manager, it’s important that you do everything possible to keep your staff out of harm’s way. Taking the necessary precautions around the workplace and addressing any safety concerns quickly can prevent serious bodily injuries to your employees that could result in workers’ compensation claims or lawsuits. Here are five common workplace hazards that you’ll want to resolve to protect your staff.
Harmful Allergic Reactions
Chemical cleaners that contain toxic chemicals can cause harmful allergic reactions in some people, and you can prevent this problem by using cleaning solutions that are made with natural ingredients or hiring a cleaning crew that practices eco-friendly cleaning methods. Allergic reactions could also occur because of mold growth that should be remediated quickly.
Cluttered and Confined Spaces
Employees who work in cluttered and confined spaces often have more trouble escaping the building if a fire breaks out or another disaster occurs. Emergency personnel will also have more difficulty getting to employees who work in these hard-to-access spaces to provide medical care. Clearing out boxes and other items that are taking up space can make accessing all areas of your business easy for everyone.
Electrical Hazards
Damaged wires and electrical equipment can create electrical hazards that increase fire and electrocution risks. If you want to protect yourself from a legal standpoint, Prediletto, Halpin, Scharnikow & Nelson, P.S. workplace comp attorneys can provide advice on how to minimize the chances of electrical mishaps in your workplace that could result in lawsuits. You should also hire a skilled electrical contractor to perform any repairs or updates to your electrical system to keep everyone safe.
Falling Objects
Items that are placed on top shelves or in other elevated spaces and not secured properly could end up falling and causing serious bodily harm to your employees. Dilapidated ceilings and other parts of your building could also fall and injure staff members. Securing objects in high-up places better and having any needed maintenance work done to keep your building intact will be good for your staff.
Slips and Falls
Slick floors around your building could pose slipping and falling hazards that may result in broken bones, concussions and other major injuries. It’s advisable to place caution signs by floors that are slick from cleaning or moisture that has been tracked in from outside your building. If your floors are often slick because of the nature of your business, you should suggest that your employees where shoes with slip-resistant soles.
You’ll be doing your part as a responsible manager to keep your employees protected if you address all the safety concerns around your business. Resolving these safety hazards will help keep your employees happy and injury-free and may save you from having to face liability claims.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
