Making your workplace safer

1. Making your workplace safer

2. Workplace Safety • All 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. • However, there are other potential accidents waiting to happen in your workplace. • Here are some hints and tips for you on keeping your workplace safe…

3. Fire Exit Plans • Make sure everyone knows what the plans are via training sessions and diagrams. • Ensure the route is clear of rubbish or obstructions. • Practice 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. • Training should also be given on how to deal with a fire if you are there when it starts.

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

5. Signage • In the UK we are known for our love of signs! • 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. • 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.

6. Training • It is important to ensure there areregular training opportunities for staff to learn about safety in the workplace and how to deal with accidents. • Such training could include: • First Aid • Fire Safety Training. • General Office Safety • Food Hygiene • Managing Stress

7. Safety Co-ordinator • 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. • They should have all the relevant training and be actively involved in improving the safety in the workplace. • They should also listen to employees concerns and be involved in setting up or running training sessions.

8. Regular Reviews • Finally, regular reviews are essential to ensure safety in the workplace is maintained. • The 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. • If concerns are found, they should be addresses as soon as possible. • Even 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.