Workplace accidents can happen at any time, often when you least expect them. However, many incidents are preventable with the right mindset, safe working practices and a commitment to precaution.
Causes of accidents can almost always be traced to a dangerous act, an unsafe condition or a combination of the two. In most instances, an accident could have been avoided by following proper safety precautions.
Understanding Key Hazards
To avoid accidents, it’s essential to understand the factors that can cause them. Countless unsafe acts and conditions can lead to accidents, but some common hazards include:
- Using defective or damaged equipment
- Performing tasks without adequate training
- Failing to wear appropriate personal protective equipment
- Improperly handling, storing, or disposing of materials
- Maintaining poor housekeeping or cluttered workspaces
- Engaging in horseplay or reckless behaviour
Prevention Measures
The first step to keeping yourself and your co-workers safe is to stay alert. Always observe safety precautions before and during a task, even if those precautions make the task more inconvenient or take longer to complete. Cutting corners may not seem like a big deal, but doing so is a primary cause of workplace incidents. Never let routine or familiarity lure you into carelessness.
Next, make sure you understand your job role. The more informed you are about your responsibilities and the correct safety procedures and precautions, the safer you’ll be. If you’re ever unsure, speak to your supervisor. Asking questions demonstrates responsibility and a commitment to safety.
Finally, make a personal contribution. Start by following all safety rules without exception. These rules are designed to protect you and your co-workers. However, even if a particular unsafe action isn’t explicitly prohibited, that doesn’t mean it’s acceptable. Use your judgment when assessing whether something is safe. A simple adjustment can often make a task much safer if you take a moment to think it through.
Focusing on Good Habits
It’s natural to fall into routines, but breaking a safety rule can be the first and most significant step toward forming a dangerous habit. That habit could easily lead to injury. Fortunately, good habits are just as easy to develop. Taking proper precautions and staying aware of potential hazards should become second nature.
Most importantly, cultivate a safety-first mindset. This concept can be one of the hardest to foster, as many workers mistakenly believe that accidents only happen to others. But safety is a shared responsibility. When every person in the workplace plays their part by following safety procedures and staying alert to risks, everyone benefits.
To learn more, reach out to CMB Insurance Brokers. We can provide you with valuable insights and guidance: call CMB at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote.