Almost $200 billion a year is spent on injuries and fatalities in the workplace, according to the National Safety Council. Due to lack of information or budgetary constraints, employees find themselves dealing with injury or disability due to accidents in the workplace, many of which could have been avoided.
On the grounds of inadequate safety measures, dissatisfaction with your workplace or employer should be coursed through employment lawyers here in Denver.
A primary responsibility
Some employers may have overlooked aspects of workplace safety, which lead to loss of limb and damage to property. Others may be aware of the risks and necessary measures, but elect to ignore the obvious. Reinforcing and implementing safe practices in the workplace is an important role of employers.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, an employer should “Provide a workplace free from serious recognized hazards and comply with standards, rules and regulations issued…” Your employer must be able to provide you with a safe environment that is comfortable and maximizes your productivity.
Any employer who neglects worker safety and puts their employees at unnecessary risk is subject to fines and penalties.
For physical and psychological well-being
Safety involves prevention of all types of injuries, illnesses, and accidents in the workplace. Employers are obliged to provide an environment that looks after both the physical and psychological well-being of workers.
Emphasis on workplace safety levels up a few notches when there are dangerous conditions involved, including operation of complex machines and handling of hazardous compounds.
Key workplace safety principles
How do employers promote safety in the workplace? First, information dissemination is very important. Discussions about workplace safety in regard to equipment design and workplace setup must be out in the open.
Employers should nurture this kind of culture because it could bring forward issues that can prevent injuries and fatalities before they even arise. Also, employers must invest in resources to identify the root cause of serious injuries that have occurred in the past, if any.
Also, regular risk assessment and surveying/monitoring for potential hazards must be in place. Consultant with occupational health practitioners could provide valuable insight on how to prevent and minimize injuries in the workplace.
A commitment to better workplace safety
Employers should make a commitment to workplace safety and health – as much time and effort as they would any other aspects of a business. After all, a poorly performing and ill workforce will not produce results, and that would reflect on the company’s performance in the market.
A good business plan should integrate workplace safety measures and practices into its very framework. Monitoring systems must be in place, and resources must be allotted to make these systems foolproof.
Your employer is responsible for your safety and well-being. When you arrive at work, measures must be in place to allow you to go back home safe and sound. By complying with state and federal regulations, your employer would be taking responsibility.
If there is any instance when you think the management is lacking in this regard, you must speak out. Don’t wait for an accident to happen.
