6 Practical Tips For Improving Workplace Safety

We understand that the main objective of most managers within factories is to keep their employees safe. But often, when you are trying to change a culture, it can be overwhelming as it can often take a lot of time to implement. We often get asked about small ways that we can improve the safety on our client's sites so we have developed a list of our most favourite ways to increase staff engagement.

1. Use Polymer Barriers to protect Pedestrian and Assets

One of the biggest challenges that factory managers face is preventing pedestrians from being hit by forklift trucks. This not only poses a serious safety risk but can also lead to significant fines for your company and can even damage your brand reputation. At Clarity, we understand the importance of workplace safety and the consequences of costly accidents. Many companies have turned to us for solutions after experiencing significant financial losses due to workplace incidents. By providing polymer barriers to protect pedestrians and assets, we offer a practical and effective way to prevent accidents and maintain a safe working environment. Read more about the different types of Safety Barriers here or read about the pricing of our polymer barriers here.

2. Use Interactive Signage to keep Employees Engaged

Another common issue that factory managers often face is employees taking no notice of signage or designated walkways because they become accustomed to their surroundings.

Interactive signage is a game-changer in enhancing workplace safety by keeping employees engaged. LED projectors that are wired into sensors, can make signage dynamically change based on the environment, such as displaying a walkway for pedestrians or a STOP sign when a forklift truck is detected. This real-time adaptation not only alerts individuals to potential dangers but also keeps them actively involved in their surroundings. The interactive nature of these signs serves as a constant reminder of safety procedures, fostering a culture of safety consciousness within the workplace. 

 

3. Make your Safety equipment accessible

How often do you have an incident at work, and no one knows how to deal with the situation, where there are already clear procedures in place? Ensuring that safety equipment and procedures are easily accessible is essential for preventing and dealing with accidents and injuries in the workplace. All safety equipment, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency devices, should be readily available to employees at all times.

Our Health & Safety Walls are a great way to keep all of your equipment in one place, and make it stand out for all of your employees.

4. Keep your Signage Consistent

Consistency in safety signage is crucial for workplace safety. All safety signs should follow a consistent design, color scheme, and format throughout the workplace. This consistency helps employees quickly recognise and understand the meaning of different signs, even in emergency situations.

Ensure that safety signs are clear, visible, and easily understandable. Use universally recognised symbols and concise messages to convey important safety information. Regularly inspect and maintain the signage to ensure that it remains in good condition and is visible at all times. Consistent signage plays a vital role in guiding employees and visitors to safety protocols and emergency exits.

5. Keep your workspaces clean

Maintaining clean workspaces is essential for workplace safety. Cluttered and untidy work areas can increase the risk of accidents, such as slips, trips, and falls. Encourage employees to keep their workspaces organized and free from unnecessary items that can obstruct walkways or cause hazards.

Regularly clean and inspect workspaces to identify and remove any potential hazards. Provide adequate storage solutions to keep tools, equipment, and materials properly organised. Implement regular cleaning schedules and promote good housekeeping practices among employees. These procedures link to the 5S Lean methodology and should always be practised in your warehouse to ensure safety and efficiency. To find out more about our 5S Workshops, click here.

6. Regularly Update and Train your employees

As technology and safety standards evolve, it is essential to keep employees informed and trained on the latest safety practices.

Schedule regular safety training sessions to educate employees on potential hazards, emergency procedures, and the proper use of safety equipment. Provide refresher courses to reinforce safety knowledge and ensure that employees are up to date with any changes in safety protocols.

Additionally, encourage employees to report any safety concerns or near-miss incidents. You can track your lost time incidents with our digital LTI boards. This open communication promotes a proactive safety culture where employees actively contribute to identifying and addressing potential risks. By regularly updating and training your employees, you can create a safer and more prepared workforce.

In conclusion, workplace safety is a critical aspect of any business operation, and implementing the right strategies can help prevent accidents and create a safer work environment for everyone. From using polymer barriers to keeping signage consistent, there are numerous ways to enhance safety measures in the workplace, and not all of them require a large investment. By prioritising safety, not only can you protect your employees and assets, but you can also improve productivity and morale within your organisation. Click the button below to receive your free quotation for one of these items above.