As a small business owner, workplace safety should be one of your top priorities. Sure, you want a profitable business, but that can't come at the expense of the health and well-being of your employees.
ContentsUse more "contactless" itemsDo frequent safety trainingKeep your workplace cleanCommunicateInvest in workplace safetyBut how can you improve employee safety, even in a typical office environment? Company ownership requires you to make these changes.
We want to offer some advice. Keep reading to learn all about simple ways to effectively improve workplace safety and morale.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we've all been reminded of how easy it is to spread the disease to others. Even asymptomatic people can spread the virus. It is rare, but possible, for surfaces to retain the virus.
This has always been true with common illnesses, however. During flu season, shouldn't we be just as careful about touching things that other people have also touched?
It's a good safety measure to use more "no touch" items in places like restrooms. Items like paper towel dispensers with sensors or automatic soap dispensers (Click here for more information).
When was the last time you took workplace safety training?
For many business owners who own office-type businesses, the answer might be "during onboarding." Even if your workplace is relatively "safe", it's important that you complete workplace safety training.
It's good practice to have routine workplace safety training sessions at least once a year, but once a quarter is even better, especially if you've had a safety incident.
A clean and tidy workplace is a safe workplace. Is your desk clean enough?
Consider how easy it is for a small spill to turn into a dangerous and slippery situation. How quickly can a bunch of tangled ropes turn into someone tripping and falling?
Leave enough space for people to store things in their workspaces so there is no need for clutter. Put trash cans within easy reach of every employee. Make sure employees have a culture of responsibility to keep their space tidy.
While employees should clean up their own messes, it's a good idea to hire commercial cleaners to keep your workplace as clean and safe as possible.
Make sure you and your employees have an open line of communication.
Employees should feel empowered to talk to you about health and safety issues. Only you can make changes to protect your employees, so you're the only person they can report issues to.
This open line of communication will also make employees more comfortable when you bring up unsafe behavior.
Safety at work is crucial. You want your employees to feel comfortable in their jobs, and if they aren't in a safe and healthy environment, they may not want to continue their current careers.
By investing in workplace safety, you will improve employee morale, reduce necessary sick days and reduce employee turnover. An investment in employee health and safety is an investment in your business.
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