Workplace Safety & Workers Insurance Creates a Loyal Workforce
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 3 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers in 2016. Of the most searched safety concerns in America, workplace safety is a major cause for concern for both American employers and employees.
Workplace accidents have a severe impact on workers, which could be both physical as well as psychological, leading to reduced productivity. Accidents at the workplaces, including near misses, is a clear indication of having some uncontrolled hazard that needs to be identified and removed before it can cause any further accidents and injuries.
Workplace accidents hurt not only to employees but also employers and the business. The reduced productivity results in lower staff morale, lost sales and even closure of the business, in the worst-case scenario.
Employees are a Business’ Biggest Asset
In 2016, 40% of the employers worldwide had difficulty filling positions, representing a 2% increase from 2015, according to a 2016-17 Talent Shortage survey conducted by Manpower Group. Lack of available applicants and hard skills were cited as major reasons for employers being unable to fill positions.
Needless to say, skilled employees are a company’s biggest asset, not just because they are rare to find but because these talents provide a competitive advantage to the business. Hiring and retaining the right talent is the single most effective way of achieving results and reaching growth goals for a company.
Why Workers Compensation Insurance is a Must
When employers show they care, employees are likely to feel more motivated and believe in the company’s goals. It is for this reason that businesses make sure to provide workers compensation coverage for their workers. Worker compensation insurance is also a state mandate program, the aim of which is to provide workers with much-needed protection.
In case the employee suffers a work-related injury or illness, the insurance covers lost wages and medical treatment, so that the worker can focus on getting well, rather than trying to get back to work quickly, even before they have recovered fully, to avoid missing out on wages, says an expert at Danskin Agency.
Although workers compensation covers for medical expenses for the initial and follow-up treatments, as well as physical and occupational rehab therapies, medication, etc., it is better to prevent workplace accidents in the first place.
3 Most Important Aspects of Workers Safety
1. Ensure Fall Protection
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) on occupational injuries and illnesses, falling from a height to a lower level was the reason for nearly 5% of all worker injuries and illnesses in 2013, accounting for 13% of all fatal work-related injuries.
To provide fall protection, employers need to first identify locations that are high risk areas and train employees on proper protective gear while working at a height.
2. Identify Cause of Workplace Fatigue
At work, fatigue is a major safety issue. Occupational fatigue is often the result of heavy workload, long working hours, lack of sleep, as well as several environmental factors and medical conditions.
It is the employer’s responsibility to help employees combat fatigue by offering them breaks and scheduling their work during their most alert and active hours, while emphasizing upon the importance of sleep, as published by Safety and Health Magazine.
Providing workers compensation insurance is a great way to let workers feel cared for and know that their efforts are valued.
3. Electrical Hazards
Inappropriate use of extension cords can become a major cause of workplace mishaps. Over time, their insulation wears down, being subjected to traffic abuse by feet or forklifts, which can create shock hazards.
Employers need to make sure that extension cords being used are new and heavy gauge and are placed at a maximum possible distance from human interaction.
When employees know that they are working in a safe environment, their satisfaction levels will increase, and absenteeism will drop. Establishing safety programs and offering workers compensation insurance will create a more contented workforce, which will ultimately help the business.