What is Workplace Safety?

To help ensure the workforce is protected and workers get home safely each day, all employees should actively play a role in upholding an organization’s workplace safety program. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that safety in the workplace is of the utmost importance and deserves a seat at the table.

There are numerous benefits to safety in the workplace, for both employees and employers. Some of the most significant benefits include:

• Reduced risk of injury and illness. A safe workplace is a place where employees are less likely to be injured or become ill due to their work. This means fewer workplace accidents and illnesses, which can lead to a number of other benefits, such as:
  • Reduced costs associated with workers’ compensation claims and medical expenses
  • Reduced absenteeism and turnover rates
  • Increased productivity and morale
• Improved employee morale and job satisfaction. Employees who feel safe and valued in their workplace are more likely to be happy and productive. A safe work environment can also help to reduce stress and anxiety among employees, which can lead to improved overall health and well-being.
• Enhanced company reputation. A company that is known for its commitment to safety is more likely to attract and retain top talent, and it may also have an easier time winning customers and partners.
• Reduced legal liability. Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. Failure to do so can lead to costly lawsuits and fines.

In addition to these direct benefits, a safe workplace can also lead to a number of indirect benefits, such as:

• Improved quality of work. Employees who are focused on their safety are more likely to be focused on their work as well. This can lead to improved quality of output and fewer mistakes.
• Increased innovation. Employees who feel safe to take risks and experiment are more likely to come up with new and innovative ideas.
• Stronger company culture. A safe and supportive workplace can help to foster a strong company culture. Employees who feel valued and respected are more likely to be loyal to their employer and to go the extra mile.

Overall, there are many compelling reasons for employers to invest in safety. A safe workplace is a productive workplace, and a productive workplace is a profitable workplace.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), every $1 invested in workplace safety programs saves an average of $4 in workers’ compensation costs.

Employers can create a safer workplace by implementing a comprehensive safety program that includes the following elements:

• Hazard identification and assessment. Employers must identify and assess all potential hazards in the workplace.
• Risk control. Employers must implement controls to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. These controls may include engineering controls (e.g., machine guarding), administrative controls (e.g., safe work practices), and personal protective equipment (e.g., hard hats and safety glasses).
• Employee training. Employers must train employees on how to safely perform their jobs and how to use safety equipment.
• Program evaluation. Employers must regularly evaluate their safety program to ensure that it is effective.

By taking these steps, employers can create a safer workplace for their employees and improve their bottom line.