Workplace safety is all about working together as a team. Even managers can only do so much to encourage their employees to be safe throughout the day. In a fast-paced world, employees are crucial to staying safe and encouraging coworkers to be safe as well.
As an employee, you not only have the power to work safely and encourage others to do the same, but you also have that responsibility as an honorable worker. While management has their own responsibilities to keep the workplace environment safe, this post will discuss important ways that employees can help keep a workplace safe.
Ways for Employees to Contribute to a Safe Workplace
Speak Up
One of the most effective ways that an employee can contribute to a safe work environment is to speak up if they see something troubling. While many companies have a system in place to receive feedback or refresh safety training, when it comes to safety issues, you don’t have to wait for a specific time to call attention to an issue. If you see a coworker being unsafe, mention to them the safer alternative. If you don’t feel comfortable doing that, then go directly to a supervisor.
You should also go to your supervisor if you see any hazards in the workplace. Whether it’s with equipment or environment, or even sub-par safety gear, feel free to speak up to help your workplace environment safe for everyone.
Lead by Example
You never need to be in a position of leadership to act as a leader. Follow safety protocols and wear the proper safety gear to stay safe. As you continue to set the right example, other employees will see how you follow guidelines and will follow suit. You may see that your example can be the catalyst for the entire workforce to practice safety protocols as they were intended.
Look Out for Each Other
Remember that employees are all working for the same cause, together. So remember to look out for each other. A good rule to remember is that “a workplace is only as safe as its most unsafe employee.” An unsafe worker’s actions and behavior can end up hurting themselves or even others. If you see someone being unsafe, consider suggesting them a safer alternative. If you don’t feel comfortable doing that, you can calmly notify your manager instead.
Utilize Proper Safety Gear
What sounds simple, often, is simple. Wearing the proper safety gear for your job is a simple way to ensure that you’re contributing to a safe workplace environment. Just because this is a simple tip doesn’t mean that all employees follow this rule. Employees might feel the urge to cut corners or skimp on their gear “just this one time.” Unfortunately, this becomes a slippery slope that can lead to regularly skimping on safety gear, which could ultimately result in a dangerous or devastating workplace accident.
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