Tag Archives: workplace safety

Back Safety, General Safety Issues, Health Issues

Here’s How To Minimize The Pain That Stems From Workplace Injuries

Here’s How To Minimize The Pain That Stems From Workplace Injuries

Written by Rozy Andrews

If your job demands you to involve in intense physical activities, then receiving workplace injuries is quite natural. The injuries that you get at your workplace not only lead to enormous pain and discomfort, but they also reduce your productivity. And if you fail to subside the pain, you won’t be able to get back to your work immediately; therefore, seeking quality treatment is utterly crucial.

Whether you injure your lower body parts such as hip, knee, and ankle or your upper body parts like lower back, shoulder, neck, and elbow, etc., seeking physical therapy can prove to be highly significant for you.

Since physical therapy involves the use of drug-free treatments techniques like dry needling, Kinesio taping, and cold laser therapy, etc., you will never complain of having side effects.

However, if you use drugs and surgical treatments to improve your condition, you might experience side -effects.

Here’s How A Physical Therapist Treats Workplace Injuries:

  • They Examine The Severity of Your Injury

Before offering any treatment to you, your physical therapist will examine the severity of your injury. Whether you have injured your muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, bones or joints, the physical therapist will offer the treatment after they arrive at a reliable diagnosis.

To figure out how serious is the injury, they will ask you to perform physical activities. For example, if you are suffering from a knee injury or a back injury, they might ask you to walk or bend down to pick up something from the floor, to check the severity of your pain. Besides, they also focus on identifying the location of the injury, so that they can treat it effectively.

  • They Use Treatment Techniques That Suit Your Needs

After identifying how severe is your injury, your therapist will create a personalized care plan to meet your needs. They will include only those treatment techniques that can show quick results.

For example, if you want to treat your back pain, then they might use techniques like dry needling for ensuring a quick recovery. It’s a painless treatment technique, and while administering it, your physical therapist will use fine sterile needles. Your therapist will insert these needles into the specific points in your back to enhance blood flow, reduce pain, and to improve the natural healing process of the body.

Apart from that, your physical therapist might also include therapeutic exercise in the treatment plan. Based on your injury, they will pick specific moves that can strengthen your muscles, bones, and joints, so that you can get back to your work quickly.

The might use both strength building exercises and quality stretches, to ensure a quick recovery.

According to James River Physical Therapy, “Therapeutic exercise refers to a wide range of physical activities that focus on restoring and maintaining strength, endurance, flexibility, stability, and balance. The goal of therapeutic exercises is to return an injured patient to a fully functioning, pain-free state.”

  • Physical Therapy Relieves Pain Quite Fast

Whether you talk about dry needling, therapeutic exercises, Kinesio Taping, and cold laser therapy, each of these techniques help in minimizing pain quickly. Since they help in enhancing the blood flow to injured tissues, you can see a quick improvement in your health. In short, increased circulation helps in providing nutrients to the damaged area of your body, which eventually accelerates the natural healing process and relieves pain.

  • It Restores Your Normal Range of Motion

When your therapist starts offering treatment to you, they monitor your condition frequently. They keep examining your range of motion during the physical therapy sessions. And if the treatment they are offering to you is not showing expected results, then they will use some other techniques.

The best part is that they work one-on-one with you, for example, when they ask you to perform stretching exercises, they will teach you every move in the beginning. And once you learn them, you can do them on your own.

Since exercise helps in enhancing your flexibility, it proves to be utterly helpful in restoring your natural range of motion.

Your therapist will use different types of exercises to achieve different goals. For example, they will teach you specific moves, when it comes to promoting relaxation. Similarly, for improving the range of motion, they will ask you to perform exercises that increase your muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance.

If you sit in front of your desk for long hours, and you are having back pain, then it might be because of poor posture. So, in this case, your therapist will teach you postural exercises to strengthen your spine. It is crucial for you to learn the right sitting techniques to avoid problems like back and neck pain. Besides, they may also ask you to take short breaks in every 2 hours to reduce the stress on your back.

General Safety Issues

Advantages of Providing Safe Workplace to the Employees

ADVANTAGES OF PROVIDING SAFE WORKPLACE TO THE EMPLOYEES

Benefits of safe workplace

Most businesses ignore the various safety regulation in order to reduce the short term operating cost of their business operations. However recent studies on the subject shows that the creation of a safe workplace is more beneficial to the companies. The main benefits of developing a safe workplace are given below

  1. Increase in employee safety: The development of a safe workplace helps to reduce the number of accidents that happen at a workplace. The implementation of the proper safeguards helps to improve employee morale. These measures also help to improve the productivity of the employees. The creation of a safe workplace helps to create strong bonds between the employees and employers. These strong bonds help to improve the overall efficiency of the business operations of the company.
  2. Reduction in operating cost: Businesses have to pay at least one million US dollars to employees as compensation every week in order to settle the lawsuits related to workplace accidents. The development of a safe workplace helps to reduce the number of lawsuits that are filed against the company as well as the compensation paid by the company to injured employees. The decrease in the number of accidents at a workplace also helps to reduce the number of absent employees. The reduction in the number of accidents at a workplace also helps to reduce the chances of a complete shutdown of the business operations of the company.
  3. Positive effect on public perception: The reduction in the number of accidents at a workplace has a positive impact on the general perception of the public about the company. Customers usually prefer to buy products from companies who care more about their employees as compared to other companies. The creation of a safe workplace helps the company to increase customer retention by building a positive public image.

Facts related to Workplace Safety

One worker dies every 15 seconds due to a work related accident. More than 150 workers are injured during various workplace accidents at the same time. The implementation of poor health and safety regulations is responsible for reducing the global GDP by more than 4 percent. The implementation of poor health and safety regulations by businesses is responsible for 317 million workplace related accidents. More than half million employees are injured during workplace related accidents every year in Australia. A study conducted by the National security council of Australia shows that 85 % of the businesses fail to properly implement the necessary safety measures. The survey also concludes that most of the workplace related accidents occur in the Construction sector. The Mining sector, Forestry & Fisheries sector, Transport & Storage sector and Manufacturing sector are the other four sectors that are responsible for most of the workplace related accidents.

Measures for increasing Workplace Safety

The main steps that can be used by the businesses to increase worker safety are given below

  1. Staff training: The businesses should provide adequate safety training to their employees in order to create safe The first aid training can help the employees to provide basic medical assistance to the injured patients in case of a work related accident. This will help the businesses to reduce the number of workplace related deaths.
  2. Implementation of Work Health and Safety Act 2011: The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 was developed by the Australian government in order to reduce the number of workplace accidents. The act contains a list of rules that can help businesses to minimize the risk of workplace related The implementation of the new law also helps the Australian businesses to minimize their legal obligations in case of a workplace related accident.
  3. Implementation of safety incentive plan: The implementation of a safety incentive plan helps to reduce the risk of workplace related The businesses should create and distribute various procedural manuals and promotion videos. This information will help employees to make effective decisions in the case of a workplace related accident.
  4. Use of Protective safety equipment: Businesses should equip their employees with Protective safety equipment in order to better protect their employees from chemical, mechanical and radiological hazards. The companies should also provide special training to these employees in order to reduce workplace related.

About the author

I’m Jessica Gross. I read and write every day on various topics related to society, culture, academics, business and lifestyle. I have been working as an academic consultant for Australian assignment help for more than a decade. You can catch me on twitter.

 

 

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

Frequent construction site accidents and how to avoid them

Frequent construction site accidents and how to avoid them

Working on a construction site can be an extremely dangerous job. In fact, several hundred people have lost their lives while working in or being on a construction site in 2016 alone in the United States.  The ‘Fatal Four’ are the top four leading causes of construction site injuries and deaths in America every year. These are:

  • Falling
  • Being stuck by an object
  • Electrocutions
  • Caught-in/between*

*This means that the worker was caught-in/compressed by objects or equipment. They were then struck, caught, or crushed in a collapsing structure, equipment, or material.  These accidents can lead to:

  • Scarring
  • Disfigurement
  • Back or Neck injuries
  • Spinal chord injury
  • Brain injury
  • Blindness
  • Deafness
  • Amputated limbs
  • Death

One thing is more shocking than the ‘Fatal Four’, and that is how many deaths are caused by them each year. In 2015, 364 workers died from falls, 90 from being struck by an object, 81 from electrocutions, and 67 from caught-in/betweens. Then numbers have only gotten worse just one year later. In 2016, 384 workers died from falls, 93 from being struck by an object, 82 from electrocutions, and 72 from caught-in/betweens.  The total number of ‘Fatal Four’ deaths each calendar year equals more than half of all construction worker deaths. Out of all occupations’ work-related deaths, construction deaths make up over 20 percent. That means one in five workplace deaths are from construction alone, which is also the highest of all the industries.

Causes of the ‘Fatal Four’  Falls: 

  • Misuse of ladders
  • Unguarded, protruding steel bars
  • Improper scaffold construction
  • Unprotected sides, wall openings, and/or floor holes

Being struck by an object: 

  • Masonry walls
  • Falling/flying objects
  • Vehicles

Electrocutions: 

  • Lack of ground-fault
  • Contact with power lines
  • Improper use of equipment and cords
  • Path to ground missing or discontinuous

Caught-in/betweens: 

  • unsafe spoil-pile placement
  • Unsafe access/egress
  • Failure to inspect trench and protective systems
  • No protective systems

How to prevent accidents for all of you construction workers  

Equipment:  ToolsCritic.com recommends that all hand tools and equipment non-machine-operated should be cleaned and properly stored away in a designated area after being used,. Before use, be it hand tool or machine, all equipment should be checked to make sure they are in proper working order. By taking a few extra minutes doing this, you’re eliminating the risk for faulty equipment and accidents that are caused by equipment laying around.

Following safety guides and training:  The safety guides and training all employers are required to give are designed and set in place by OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. These are specifically for the health of every construction worker.

Staying alert:  With any job, it is necessary to pay attention to your work, but construction workers need to pay extra attention. Others may mess up a task, but construction workers could lose a lot more. By paying attention to your surroundings, watching for anything falling, making special note of any possible hazards, you’ll increase your chance of going home safe and sound.  Extra precautions:

Say what you see. If there are unsafe working conditions, don’t be afraid to tell your employer. It’s part of your job. Doing so can save your life or someone else’s.

Take a break. It’s easy to get exhausted, especially when working in construction. Eating, staying hydrated and allowing the body even a few minutes of rest can keep you and other construction workers to stay focused and more alert to what’s happening.

See and be seen. You won’t be the only one on site, usually. Wearing bright color clothing, as well as a neon vest, can keep you visible to others. This is important because accidents aren’t only a one person event. People can run into each other, be throwing things around the site, or a number of other factors that could trigger an accident. So make sure to make yourself easily seen and to see others.

Put up signs. It’s common to put up signs around the site for high-risk areas. Whether it is because of a high voltage area, an area where debris will fall, or another reason, putting up a sign can alert others and remind yourself to stay clear of the area or to be extra cautious. Remember to look for them as well, since others may have put up a sign.  Remember, if you have an accident or see someone else have one while on site, follow the appropriate steps to seek immediate medical attention for the worker. Accidents can and do happen, but the numbers can become a fraction of what they are now if these measures are taken.

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

Workplace Safety & Workers Insurance Creates a Loyal Workforce

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.

Eye Protection, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection

WORK RELATED SAFETY – A KEY CONCERN FOR COMPANIES (GUEST POST)

You’re running a company, earning heavy profits. Apart from aiming on the profits, how much concerned your company is for those who are the unsung heroes of your company’s success. It’s the time you, as a company, did something for their safety as their lives have no substitute. 

Read on to know the safety guidelines your company can adhere to raise the productivity of both, the employees and the company as whole.

1). Working Environment

It’s extremely vital for a company to get its employees an environment they feel good working in. These seemingly trivial, but important things are:

  • Floors need to be spick and span
  • Machineries should be rust and dust free.
  • A hygienic canteen is crucial since unhealthy food makes employees prone to the various diseases.
  • Friendly relations among the employees, HR manager and the boss. 

2) Protection at work area

Operating machinery, make sure, if your employee is familiar with the basics of the machine operation. Ignoring this thing can pose a threat, both to the employee and machinery.

Maintain decorum, making it mandatory for every employee to be fully equipped while working. Be it, gloves, goggles, vest, hard hats or any other safety gears required to be put on, the workers be told to comply with that regulation.

Imposing fines on the violators will certainly keep a check on the indiscipline. Tell the employees about the consequences of drinking alcohol at work that impairs the safe operation of the machineries and makes the employees susceptible to injuries.

Safety at work also needs clarifying about the kind of tasks an employee is supposed to do. He should be detailed about the manuals of the machines and all the possible dos and don’ts. Most accidental cases have also revealed; the employees are often made to work on a machine without thorough detailing that makes a way for such accidents to happen.

Interactive sessions and meeting should be held before you call it a day. As a company’s leader, you’re expected to interact with the rest of the team, acquiring the knowledge about how the things are going on. A few minutes of get-together will undeniably help the employees raise safety issues they’ve been facing for long periods of time.

3) Safety programs:

What kind of safety program your company follows and what the guidelines are that have been included in it, are the critical issues. Arrange a meeting after a few months or so with the employees and HR manager, keeping all of them updated about the safety guidelines. Conducting a safety drill in the company will certainly clear out the things as, then, the employees will get to know what exactly they need to do in urgency. Asking the employees about the guidelines mentioned in the safety program will show how much they know what to do on the practical grounds. It includes:

In case of emergency, how to get an ambulance at the earliest and which hospital in the locale they would rush.

Specify about the load’s maximum limit the employee can carry since the most accidents occur while carrying overloads at the back.

Detailing them when to use a wheelbarrow, conveyor belt, forklifts and other machines will certainly curtail the risk getting your employees injured.

The company needs to bring some positive alterations, revising the safety programs, especially according to the suggestions made by those employees, who often come face-to-face with the hazardous situations.

In a nutshell, a company strikes pay dirt and remains in the pink of health, only if its employees feel healthy and safe. 

 

For construction related safety products, feel free to visit:

http://cleanwrap.net/

 

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Respiratory Safety

HOW TO IMPROVE SAFETY AT WORK (GUEST POST)

People often talk about safety for motorcyclists, as there are plenty of roadside accidents that result in deaths of riders all over the world. There is no doubt that this is a serious issue and needs to be addressed in the most appropriate manner. However, there are some other fields where there is plenty of risk involved and they need to be taken care of as well.

One area where safety standards need an improvement is the workplace that involves dangerous equipment and heavy machinery. The employees working in such industries are always at a risk of losing their lives, so they need to be protected. No matter how tough you are, things can go terribly wrong for you if an object hits your head near a construction site or you get trapped inside a mine.

Just like some motorcycle products provided by stores such as Riderwear, there are some top quality companies developing safety equipment like helmets, gloves and goggles etc for employees at a dangerous workplace. It is the responsibility of the employers to provide such products to the workers, so that things continue working smoothly and there is minimum danger involved.

As an employer, there are quite a few steps that can be taken to ensure safety at workplace. Some of the most useful tips are as follows.

Be proactive

First of all, you need to be proactive and think of some innovative steps in order to make your workers feel safer. It is not ideal to wait for any bad incident to happen and then react. Therefore, you should assess the dangers involved in your industry; look at some mishaps that occurred in similar industries and find out what solutions are being used by other organizations in order to make the workplace safer. 

Warning Signs

Some of the employees might be new to the office and there is every chance that they end up in trouble. Therefore, it is always best to post warning signs alongside every machine or at every possible area where there is some danger involved. This way, the employee will himself take preventive action or will get assistance from a senior member. 

Protective Equipment

Next thing is to have the protective equipment provided to all of the staff. Not only do you have to make it available, ensure that each employee is fully geared up during the working hours. This should be mandatory for the workers otherwise they should be fined or given warnings. 

Skilled Personnel

Although inducting fresh workers is always a good idea, you should work according to the nature of your business. In case there are complex machines and hazardous products at the workplace, you should get skilled personnel if possible, rather than fresh ones, who are vulnerable to getting injured because of their lack of knowledge. 

Get Help

In case you are confused over something, try getting help from your seniors rather than going for experimentation. Things like these can put your safety under threat and even if you come out of the situation unhurt, you could lose your job. 

Written and contributed by Nicolle Suzan.

Back Safety, Ergonomics, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

EASY HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)

Regardless of the type of industry you work in, whether it is construction, manufacturing or energy, it is extremely important that you adhere to any health and safety rules in the workplace. If you fail to follow the health and safety guidelines  in operation, you may find that you inadvertently put yourself, and those around you, at risk. To ensure  you are taking  safety seriously, and protecting those around you,  we recommend you follow these five simple tips:

Slips, Trips and Falls

Regardless of the environment you work in, you need to be conscious of any potential slips and trips that can occur. To avoid a fall at work, you should ensure that all employees have had relevant training, explaining how best to avoid any accidents in the workplace. For example, ensuring all equipment is returned after use, can prevent anyone from tripping over it. It is also important that all employees know not to ignore a spillage or hazard.

Heavy Goods and Lifting

If you work in an industry which requires you to constantly move products from one place from another, you should always ensure you are comfortable with the weight you are carrying. Currently there are restrictions in place, as to what a single person should legally be carrying, these regulations aim to protect employees from being expected to carry something that is too heavy for them. If you believe that an item is too heavy to be carried safely, you should use the appropriate lifting gear available, helping to prevent a heavy lifting injury.

Personal Protective Clothing

If you work in a hazardous environment, or you are operating dangerous machinery, you should always ensure that you are wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Clothing (PPE). Even if you are only going to be working for a short period of time, it is essential that you, and your fellow employees, are always protected.

Wiring

Most work places will have a high volume of wires to contend  with. It is extremely important that all wires are maintained, and organized, in a manner that will prevent employees and visitors from tripping over them. If  a little time is regularly dedicated to tidying and maintaining wires, you will find that any issues are quickly resolved. When setting up new equipment, or machinery, you should make certain that all wires are kept to the edge of a room, and that they are firmly fixed in place.  Such measures will ensure they cannot move, avoiding the potential for a hazard to develop.

Fire Hazards

In any workplace fires are extremely dangerous, and can be devastating. With this in mind, you should prioritise  protecting your workplace; making sure all employees are vigilant. It is crucial that you clearly explain and display fire procedures, making sure they are understood, in case of an emergency.  You should also test and service all fire alarms and fire extinguishers on regular basis, so you know they will work correctly if they are ever required. 

Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about health and safety claims process, such information is available at www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133 

About Asons Solicitors:

Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again. 

For further information contact:

Email: info@asons.co.uk; Website: www.asons.co.uk

General Safety Issues

CREATING A SAFE WORK PLACE ENVIRONMENT (GUEST POST)

“Nicholas Haywood is a home improvement specialist and DIY enthusiast who has experienced his own share of preventable accidents. He writes on behalf of Vista Window Film, a provider of window tint.”

Safety in the workplace—whether a construction site or a factory—is
paramount. It should be held above the need for a profit or the
“efficiency” that the workers demonstrate. Injuries in the workplace are
often too extreme to let safety lapse. One wrong move can lead to a crushed appendage or a chopped off hand. What follows are law suits, months of recovery, pain, and possibly the inability to ever continue to work in your chosen profession. Here are some tips to increase work place safety.

*Set Work Place Rules and Boundaries*

If your workplace does not already have them, you should set some rules
that will increase safety. If you are the boss this is fairly easy.
Employees that feel that their safety is threatened by the lack of rules
can petition the boss for additional safety rules. If the boss is unwilling
you should point out that increased safety will also benefit the boss.

* Obey Work Place Rules and Boundaries*

Rules can only protect you from permanent injury if they are obeyed.
Employers should assure that rules are followed by all employees. Safety
procedures often involve multiple people to adhere to. My wife suffered a
permanent knee injury when none of her co-workers would help her lift a
patient. The safety procedures demanded that two people are required for
that particular job. An environment that promotes breaking safety rules
will result in multiple injuries that will leave you short staffed.
Employees that work in an unsafe environment due to the status quo should bring the problem to the boss. In the meantime employees should ensure that they follow the rules to the best of their capability. By helping each other you are helping everyone stay healthy.

*Become in the Habit of Keeping Things Orderly *

An orderly work place will lead to increased safety. Work areas with
objects strewn everywhere are hazards. Here are a few suggestions to
increase safety with an orderly work place:

·         Employers should have set areas where large objects can be
placed. Large objects placed in the middle of paths are walking hazards to
workers that are carrying large objects that hinder their site.

·         Electrical equipment should be plugged into nearby objects or
attached to outlets with extension cords. Wires that are pulled taught can
be dangerous to the person using the equipment and the people walking
nearby.

·         Store dangerous equipment in predetermined areas. This will
create an area where employees know that they need to be careful instead of increasing the risk of injury across the whole site.

*Decrease Distractions*

As an employer or an employee you should endeavor to decrease distractions in the work place. Distractions often lead to employees making preventable mistakes that lead to serious personal injury. Here are a few areas of distractions that can be eliminated in the workplace:

Many places play *music.* Music can be harmless. Many establishments play music in the background to provide a better ambience for the people within the area. Music does not always fit well in the workplace. Some employees are unable to concentrate while music is playing. These employees could Bob and Jimmie themselves into cut off fingers while using the handsaw. Before turning on music make sure that all employees will be able to function safely while it is on.

*Fighting and bickering* like music is a distraction for the surrounding
employees that have issues concentrating. Fighting and bickering can also
lead to an unstable atmosphere. The individuals involved in the altercation
could experience lingering rage or tension from the fight. Rage is well
known for making individuals less likely to think and behave logically and
safely. This could lead to an increased likelihood of a major accident.

*Improper Lighting *could be catastrophic to employees. Too much or too
little light can decrease the ability of employees to work safely. Sudden
glares from windows around sun rise or sun set can make it impossible for
employees to use tools safely. It is important to ensure that your
workplace is properly lighted.

·         If your work area experiences too much light you can fix the
problem by decreasing the amount of light let into the room through windows with window film, curtains, or blinds. Alternately too much light can be combated with sunglasses.

·         If not enough light is available, you can plug install more
lights or buy portable construction lights.

There are, of course, a myriad of other safety suggestions to increase safety in the workplace; the ones I have suggested are only a few. As an employer or an employee it is your responsibility to contribute as much as possible to the overall safety of the work place. By working together, we can decrease the likelihood of workplace accidents.

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

AVOIDING SLIPS AND FALLS (GUEST POST)

The idea of a slip and fall leading to serious injury may seem silly to some people.  Imagery of clumsy people and frivolous lawsuits immediately come to mind.  However, slips and falls can be very dangerous and lead to over 1 million emergency room visits each year.  Nearly half of all accidental deaths at home are caused by falls,  and most injuries happen at ground level rather from elevation. 

The risk carries over to the workplace as well.  In fact, slips and falls are the leading cause of worker’s compensation claims , tallying nearly 85% of all claims, primarily on slippery or slick floors.  They also represent the primary cause of work days lost, with 22% leading to over 30 days of work missed.  The combination of compensation and medical costs from slip and fall injuries is estimated at over $70 billion annually.  The most common places for slips and falls are doorways, uneven surfaces, areas prone to wetness or spills ramps, and areas of heavy traffic.   

Despite the danger, there are a number of simple steps that can be taken to make the workplace or home safer: 

– Stay off freshly mopped floors and ensure caution signs are used on wet areas.

– Clean up spills immediately

– Secure all electrical cords in any traffic areas

– Wear footwear with good support and slip resistant soles

– Maintain open walking pathways

– Ensure that all traffic areas have adequate lighting, both indoors and outdoors

– Adjust gutters to drive water away from walkways and paths

– Never stand on a surface that has wheels, such as a table or chair

– Use non skid mats

– Install handrails on both sides of all staircases 

These steps, along with countless others, can go a long way creating a safer workplace, home, and overall environment.   Martin Solomon is a Phoenix personal injury attorney and has represented hundreds of people who have been injured.  He is an advocate for safety and works to help create safer work environments for employees and the general public.