Ohio workers have the right to a workplace that is free from preventable hazards and unnecessary risks. Employers are responsible for doing everything they can to keep workers safe. No matter what type of job you have or the nature of your work environment, there are probably ways to increase safety and reduce the chance of an accident.
Establishing and maintaining a safe workplace is important, but this takes vigilance and a commitment to the well-being of all employees. As a worker, you will find it helpful to review the potential hazards you may face while on the job, as well as what you can do to protect your rights and interests in the event you suffer an accident in the workplace.
Ways to boost safety at work
There are certain jobs that are simply more dangerous than others. Safety is critically important in these types of work environments, including construction, waste management, industrial businesses, manufacturing and more. When people who work in these types of physically demanding and hazardous jobs are in an accident, it often results in grave or fatal injuries.
Boosting safety in the workplace often starts with looking at hazards and problems that many may not notice. Overlooking hazards can result in serious harm to workers, which is why it is beneficial to review safety standards and practices on a regular basis. Some of the ways to make safety a greater priority in all types of workplaces include the following steps:
- Make workers and employers aware of all potential hazards and train them to work safely around them.
- Recognize issues that can increase stress, which can in turn lead to productivity issues and reckless behavior.
- Encourage workers to be physically fit and healthy in order to be as safe as possible at work.
- Communicate clearly regarding potential hazards, expectations, safety standards and more.
- Reduce the chance of distraction in the workplace, and implement measures to keep workers focused.
- Implement new strategies and technologies when it is clear they would increase job safety.
- Train workers to handle dangerous substances safely and provide necessary protective equipment.
The above are just a few ways that employers can continually improve safety and reduce the chance of an incident that results in employee injury. In the event that you suffer injuries in a work accident, you are likely eligible for benefits through a workers’ compensation claim.
All workers will find it beneficial to carefully review the workers’ compensation process for their work place and how to proceed in case they ever need to file a claim.