Safety in the Workplace
The best course of action for safety is to plan ahead for all kinds of emergencies. Think fire, think electric shock - absolutely anything and everything that you can think about. Make a list of all these emergencies. Based on this list, make another list of the things that you need to have at your workplace to ensure the safety of your employees. And then, install these things. It also makes sense to look at local regulations concerning office safety. These may not be comprehensive, but would provide enough guidelines to work on.
Clean It Up
Keep your working area neat and clean. Piles of papers and stacks of files combined with a tangle of wires are a disaster waiting to happen, on several fronts. A clean work space will also enable you to identify a problem, and tackle it faster and more effectively.
Security Blanket
Ensure that all your doors and windows have security locks. If you are an establishment that deals with cash on a daily basis, you may attract burglars. Install security cameras at the doors and exits. This will help record the images of thieves and such, and help the police in locating culprits.
Had a Great Fall!!!!
In order to avoid slipping and injury, it is essential to have the floors moped clean and dry. Also, the walkways and stairways should have good lighting.
Pain in the Neck!!!
Employees should make sure that their computers and keyboards are kept at a proper position to avoid eye and wrist problems, respectively.
CUT!!!!!!!
Sharp objects like scissors, blades, paper cutters, staple pins, etc., should be kept away and at safe places, to maintain the safety of employees in the office.
Where's the Fire?
Install fire alarms. Practice fire drills with your employees. During the practice sessions, ensure that all the employees follow the rules (such as getting low on the floor, closing the doors and windows to contain the fire, etc.). Mark all the exits with noticeable signs, so that employees know where to go to in case such an emergency occurs. Never lock these exits, but be sure to install security cameras on these doors. Better still, install fireproof furniture in the office.
Shocked!!!!
Ensure that all the workstations, machines, etc., are installed properly. While installing electric equipment and appliances, ensure that the wiring and switchboards are earthed properly, so as to prevent electric shocks. It is recommended to keep all the wires and cords off the floor, so as to prevent injuries caused due to tripping.
Water and electricity should never be very close to each other. Also note that, the electric plugs at cubicles should be away from places where water or coffee spills are most likely to occur.
Shake in One's Boots
Apart from fire and electrical accidents, it is also essential to take earthquakes into consideration. It is wise to have all the cabinets and desks firmly secured to the walls or the floors to avoid much damage during an earthquake.
Last, but not the least, and most of all, insurance is essential. Although it is not an office safety tip, it often helps to have it just in case an emergency occurs. With these safety tips for the workplace you can be sure to avoid most common accidents and emergencies of electric shocks and fire.
