Any responsible business will have robust health and safety policies. They’re designed to equip workers with the knowledge they need to stay safe and avoid potentially life-changing or fatal accidents at work. And while employers have a duty of care towards their employees, it’s also up to individuals to protect themselves. From following procedures to wearing the right safety equipment, you are also responsible for your workplace safety.
Read more about how you can put your safety first at work.
Familiarize yourself with workplace safety procedures
Health and safety should be one of the first things discussed when you start a new job, and if not, make sure you raise it with your employer. Your induction should include health and safety training, especially if it’s critical for your job. Familiarizing yourself with an employer’s legal health and safety responsibilities puts you in a good position to know your rights, wherever you work.
Don’t put yourself in dangerous situations
It’s easy to take risks at work, especially once you become confident and capable in your role. But taking risks can lead to some serious consequences, and will ultimately leave you responsible. It’s important to avoid dangerous situations, including scenarios you may not consider difficult, like lone working. While you may know how to avoid common trip and slip hazards in the workplace, you also need to think about those other potentially dangerous situations that can happen when you make a careless or over-confident decision. Consider health and safety in every aspect of your job.
Always ensure you wear the right safety equipment
Health and safety equipment isn’t just there because it’s in the rules, it really could save your life. Check that you have the equipment you need and learn how to wear it correctly. You should also regularly inspect your equipment to ensure it is free from damage. Your workplace should provide you with the relevant safety gear, so be sure to push for essential clothing and equipment that will keep you safe while performing your duties.
Know your rights if something goes wrong
If the worst does happen, it’s important to know your rights. Your workplace should have a procedure in place for dealing with accidents, even if they’re minor. If, however, your accident leaves you with a serious injury or a lengthy recovery, you may want to pursue legal action against your employer if the incident was their fault. Experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can help guide you through the process and file legal action on your behalf. Be sure to document incidents carefully and appeal to witnesses where possible.
While accidents at work may seem unlikely, any worker in any workplace could experience an incident at any time. Taking steps to protect your own safety can help you avoid accidents and adhere to safety policies put in place by your employer. Safety at work is always important, and being proactive about it could one day save your life, as well as that of others.
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