Workplace injuries can happen at any time, no matter how safe one’s workplace environment is. However, there are some things that can be done to help mitigate the risk of an accident. Better housekeeping practices can keep employees safe and prevent injuries, which is a win-win for both parties.
We compiled a list of some of the best housekeeping practices for work environments that can reduce the chances of an accident:
- Preventing fall accidents: Fall accidents are one of the most common causes of non-fatal workplace accidents, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers can easily prevent decrease the occurrence of these accidents by cleaning up spills within a timely manner, keeping aisles and other high traffic areas clear, replacing worn or damaged flooring, and installing warning signs wherever necessary.
- Getting rid of fire hazards: Employers should ensure their employees are properly trained and understand that combustible materials should not be allowed to accumulate in the work area. According to the National Safety Council, other safety precautions that should be taken include changing clothes if they become contaminated with flammable liquids, reporting all hazards in electrical areas, and storing flammable materials far from sources that could ignite them.
- Clearing up the clutter: Clutter is a tripping hazard and it eliminates the amount of space workers have in their environment, which can also result in ergonomic problems. Laceration injuries are also much more common in cluttered environments. Keeping the workplace tidy and giving workers enough space to comfortably move can either reduce or eliminate many of these issues.
- Maintaining equipment and tools: Many occupations require the use of equipment that can result in serious accidents and injuries when not properly maintained. Employers should regularly inspect equipment and tools to ensure they are safe for employees to use. Equipment that is broken or worn should be replaced or repaired.
- Setting some rules: Having a list of written out rules regarding housekeeping in the workplace can be immensely beneficial for everyone. Clearly defined rules and protocols create less confusion as to what should be done when reporting or addressing workplace hazards. All employees should understand and be aware of these rules to ensure any necessary procedures are followed.
- Being a team player: Everyone should play a part in keeping their work environment safe. When an employee recognizes a safety hazard, he or she should report it immediately to ensure it is addressed as quickly as possible. Individual workspaces should also be kept clean and organized. If everyone partakes in contributing to a safer environment, accidents and injuries will happen less frequently.
Hire a Knowledgeable Orange County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today!
Having to take time off from work due to a workplace injury is frustrating and can feel overwhelming, especially if you are the breadwinner in your family. However, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits that can give you the help you need during this period of recovery. At Alvandi Law Group, P.C. in Orange County, our team of workers’ compensation attorneys is committed to helping injured workers obtain the benefits they need to recover from their injuries with minimal stress.
Our law firm has successfully recovered over $300 million on behalf of our clients and has served Southern California for over three decades.
Begin filing your workers’ compensation claim today and contact us at (800) 980-6905 to get the knowledgeable help you deserve. We provide complimentary case evaluations and will not accept any legal fees until we are able to win your case.