Each new year brings about new resolutions that range from the achievable to the downright absurd. Most resolutions tend to center around personal well-being, such as promising to spend more time at the gym to get fit and setting goals to achieve professionally. However, very few take the time to ponder on how to improve health and safety while in the workplace. If you find yourself belonging to the majority who don’t make resolutions concerning workplace safety, then why not make this year the time to start making them?
After all, health and safety should always come first. Create resolutions to act on improving health and safety in the workplace. They not only ensure personal safety but also make the environment safe and ideal for others as well.
Here are some resolutions that focus on workplace safety for the New Year.
1. Review Company Policies on Health and Safety.
Take some time to look through the company policies, and review health and safety rules and regulations. Check if there are ample facilities that can prevent any hazardous substances and materials from sticking to skin and hair. Know your rights as an employee, and find out if the company that you’re working for has provided sufficient information on keeping safe in the workplace.
2. Inspect Personal Safety Equipment and Gear.
Is the safety vest still properly fitted, or have the boots lost their non-skid ability? Do the safety glasses still allow clear vision, or does the helmet need replacement? Don’t skimp on this resolution, and ensure that all your safety equipment and gear are in tip-top shape before starting work on the New Year. Otherwise, it’s out with the old, and in with the new.
3. Acknowledge Distractions – and Throw Them Away.
Distractions take away the concentration that should be poured into the task at hand. One seemingly small slip may have serious repercussions in the form of health risks, or worse, loss of life. Keep these distractions at bay when working, and focus on the job that needs to be done.
4. Know Who to Call in an Emergency.
For any workplace safety-related concerns, knowing who to call or approach is as vital as knowing how to avoid hazardous situations. Emergency situations call for immediate action, so it’s best to find out beforehand who to turn to for those times when safety is compromised at work.
Even though you’re most likely have regular safety check-ups, there’s never any harm in taking extra precautions. The New Year can bring new regulations and changes so make sure you are keeping up with current OSHA policies and rules.
Be proactive in your safety measures and remind employees of seasonal safety tips. At ResponsAble, we believe having well-trained, high quality, experienced safety professionals on a job site is the best way to cultivate a positive safety culture. Give us a call at 225-753-1909 to talk with us about your upcoming projects.