It is important to keep workplaces safe. This is essential not just for your employees but because the law says you have to. There are many workplace environments that are more dangerous than others. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a set of standard laws and regulations that must be followed. These all include standard safety items and procedures. These include things such as fire extinguishers and cleaning supplies. The list is something that everyone must follow. There are a few safety items that many businesses tend to overlook when preparing business environments for safety protocol. This is when the personal injury attorney Tampa may be called. Here are four of the most commonly overlooked safety items by business owners.
Proper Equipment Should Always Be Worn
Proper equipment is one of the most important parts of safety in a workplace. These items are often referred to as PPE. This stands for personal protective equipment. This covers a variety of objects. It includes goggles and gloves and even body suits that are sometimes needed. PPE protects the body from harmful substances and chemicals that can harm a person. We have all seen the white hazmat suit that is worn on movies. It is the same as a space suit. They are all designed to keep the body safe. PPE also includes smaller pieces of equipment like goggles when using equipment such as saws and lawnmowers. Gloves are also another often-overlooked PPE item. PPE is equipment that covers parts of the body that keeps them safe from harm. Remember that masks are included in this category as well.
Be Aware of What’s Around You
One thing that many people overlook is their surroundings. You may be used to coming to your office and don’t pay attention to what is going on around you. Or you are so engrossed in paperwork or a phone call that you don’t take notice. It is important to take note of what is going on around you. Chemicals in the air can be life-threatening. Some substances such as gases have no smell to them. Make sure to label everything. Unmarked bottles and containers are a huge hazard. Using certain substances for things that they are not meant for is very dangerous.
Keep Everyone Trained
Another thing that many people overlook is keeping everyone trained. It is important that all staff and employees know the steps to take to keep the environment in safe working order. One thing is to make sure all floors are kept clean and dry. If an employee spots a spill then they need to know the proper steps to clean it up. This includes precautions such as wet floor signs. All products and equipment should be labeled as well so employees know what they are using and how. It is important for all businesses to have safety plans in case of emergencies. One of these things is to have fire exit routes posted in highly visible areas. Another is having easy access to things like equipment closets. There are many companies that have select teams that are designed for safety within the building. Their sole purpose is to make sure everything is in working order and it is a safe environment to work.
Hydration is Important
Many positions are held outdoors. During the summer months, it can get extremely hot and humid. It is important to always keep your body hydrated at all times. This will help prevent sickness and health hazards. Businesses should supply their outdoor employees with plenty of drinking water, especially when it’s hot out.
Safety should always be a key concern for any business. Not only does it keep employees and customers safe but it keeps your business from incurring fines and problems down the road. The last thing you need is for an employee to contact the personal injury attorney Tampa.