It’s in both employees’ and companies’ best interests to instill a culture of safe working. For employees, there are obvious risks of personal harm if they aren’t safe on the floor. For companies, workplace injuries can mean a loss of profits because of work stoppages, the need for training new staff, and damaged equipment or products. So you must know how to keep your employees safe on the factory floor if you want to maintain a thriving business.
Install Security Cameras
Many companies think that CCTV only exists to protect a property from theft. But security cameras can have a daily positive impact on employee safety. With so much heavy machinery, workers, and overall factory space, accidents can happen without workers even seeing it coming. However, video surveillance in manufacturing can provide an eagle-eye view of the facility. So, if someone is watching the camera, they can see potential accidents coming and radio in a warning.
Construct a Safety Program
You should establish a safety program within your company that follows OSHA guidelines. You can start by identifying potential fire or electrical hazards. You should also invest time in developing best practices regarding the handling of heavy machinery and its potential dangers. OSHA conducted a study in Ohio where they found that the implication of safety programs decreased the number of worker compensation claims by 52 percent. Also, the cost per claim went down by 80 percent. So, it’s easy to see how a safety program can have an immediate beneficial impact.
Have Strong Communication and Training
On top of creating programs, your employees must learn and practice the guidelines set daily. You should regularly hold training sessions where you work with staff on comprehending safety procedures.
Also, maintain an open line of communication with everyone on your team because the people on the floor are most familiar with the ins and outs of day-to-day operation. If a guideline isn’t working or people aren’t following it correctly, your team members will often know before management. So, with solid communication practices, you can implement positive change faster.
By understanding how to keep your employees safe on the factory floor, you can improve your business’s working conditions and bottom line.