4 Safety Tips to Prevent Injuries at Work

Safety in the workplace has been an issue for years. Thankfully, steps have been taken and procedures have been put in place to keep every worker safe as they go about completing their tasks.

And it’s obvious why it’s so necessary! Whether you’re simply swinging a hammer or working with hoisting equipment that’s far too heavy to handle on your own, there are risks involved. It can be human error or a simple accident, but the consequences can be extreme. 

Here are some statistics to help you realise the urgency of this matter.

Workplace Injury Statistics 

While you’ll see a decrease in the fatality rate in Australia, there are still some industries that report loss of life due to workplace injuries:

• In 2018 there were 44 people who died because of a vehicle collision at a place of work
• During this same year 15 individuals had fatal injuries because of falling opjects
• Machinery operators and drivers are specifically at risk, with 51 in these positions dying because of work related injuries in 2018
• The cost of work related injuries and disease was $61.8B in the 2012-2013 period
• Even in administrative and support positions, two people’s lives were lost, caused by workplace mishaps during ‘18

When you enter the workplace your mindset must shift because there are risks you’re exposed to the moment you cross the threshold. The most common safety problems are usually found within construction sites. In these circumstances the risks are much higher and can lead to fatal injuries.

But, realise that risks are everywhere, no matter what profession you are in. So no manager OR worker can ignore the value of safety guidelines. 

So, let’s help you manage some of what you face on a daily basis.

4 Safety Tips that Apply to All Industries

“Safety first” is the most used slogan in the workplace for a reason. Here are four safety tips to prevent workplace injuries and take the stress out of staying safe at work. 

1. Safety Talks

Before entering the workplace, familiarise yourself with any unsafe or high-risk areas. Attend safety talks that discuss each workplace risk thoroughly and inform you of how to minimise said risks. These safety talks should take place every couple of months to ensure the knowledge remains fresh in everyone’s minds.  

If you feel that the current standard of safety talk issued by your employer isn’t up to scratch, speak up. Safety is not to be taken lightly and it’s in your employer’s best interest to act on your concerns. 

2. Know Your Body 

As silly as it may sound, you need to be in tune with your body in order to minimise the risk of you injuring yourself at work. By knowing your body, and its cues, you’ll be able to navigate the workplace more safely. 

For example, if you have back problems you should be doing minimal heavy lifting if any at all. Pay frequent visits to the doctor and make sure that you’re taking the correct medication to keep your health in check. Also remember to take care of your whole body including your eyes, ears and brain, such as managing stress.

3. Follow Safe Working Procedures

Everything you do at the workplace requires a safe working procedure. Even the use of a simple screwdriver should have an accompanying procedure, not to mention lifting equipment or an onsite vehicle. 

Procedures are there to help you do your work safely as well as provide you with insights of what not to do. Always be open to learning about new procesures—even if you’ve been using the equipment in question for years. Procedures are there to protect you, so make sure you follow them. 

4. Check Those Exits

Here’s a matter that can seem menial until the day that something goes wrong: the exit doors of your premises. If they’re not used often you may fall into the habit of using those areas for storage. But imagine if an emergency requires your team to exit that way. You don’t want anyone injured or even dying simply because you were negligent. 

Rather, mark the areas clearly and keep clutter away—both in front AND behind those doors. 

Didn’t Read Our Tips in Time?

Have you already sustained an injury in the workplace? Fortunately, you can get compensation for most work injuries.

Always remember that workers compensation requires certain documentation before medical treatment claims can be processed. 

A Note to Employees

When you feel unsafe you must report the situation immediately. You could be saving someone’s life as well as your own. Over 2 million non-fatal injuries take place at the workplace each year in the US and by keeping safety close to heart you can avoid becoming part of worrisome statistics.

Think about ways to make your workplace safer, voice your ideas and act on them. If nobody listens, talk a little louder until they do. Each life is worth taking action for!