* Identify potential hazards. The first step in any workplace safety plan is to identify problems that could cause accidents. Identifying potential hazards requires a team effort so you can benefit from different viewpoints and different experiences. Use what you learn to create a comprehensive safety plan and review it often to make necessary changes.
* Get familiar with the laws. OSHA provides one set of regulations, but your state, locality and even your industry provide regulations and guidelines aimed at helping you keep your workplace as safe as possible. Know which laws apply to you and make sure you adhere to them.
* Meet with your insurer. Make sure your business is properly classified so you’re not paying higher premiums than necessary. Your insurer can also provide you with information about trends in workplace accidents and claims results to help you pinpoint areas where you need to make improvements.
* Establish an emergency response protocol. Develop a plan detailing what to do when an employee becomes injured. Mae sure emergency numbers are handy to all employees, and keep a first aid kit well stocked with supplies. You may also want to provide first aid training to your employees for added protection.
* Follow up. When an accident does occur, review how the issue was handled and identify areas that need improvement to avoid a similar accident in the future. Make changes to your safety protocol, determine if there’s a need for new safety training and keep written records of everything you do during follow-up.
When it comes to keeping your workers safe, forget the snappy logos and pithy slogans, and instead take actions that can result in tangible, risk-lowering results. Make safety a priority for all of your employees and hold everyone accountable for their actions and their roles in safety implementation.
