Companies that perform routine, seemingly safe office jobs could be in for a safety shock. The Occupational Safety and Health administration (OSHA) has its eye on every business to ensure there is a safe environment for all employees, regardless of the industry or physical level of work.
Companies who do not follow OSHA rules and guidelines could face stiff fines if they do not comply with safety standards. Every business has a duty to help employees prevent accidents in the workplace. That means every small, medium, and large business must take proactive steps to manage risk and analyze and correct potential hazards in their place of business.
What does that mean for you as a small business owner? First, you must familiarize yourself with OSHA rules so that you can take any steps necessary to comply. That means reading publications, taking formal OSHA safety training, and encouraging your employees to do the same. Small businesses can even take advantage of free on-site consultations from OSHA members to assist in safety strategies.
Next, you must form a safety strategy and do what is necessary to comply with OSHA rules, and see that your employees are reasonably safe from injury and hazards. For example, you may need to update and expand your first aid kit, or provide more kits in your office, retail, warehouse, and/or manufacturing space.
Form an employee safety task committee and do a walk-through of your place of business to determine potential hazards. Create a plan to correct hazards. Provide safety tools and supplies to employees such as protective eyewear, gloves, etc. You might even consider inviting professionals to come to your business to train employees on first aid techniques.
Why do you want to spend the money to ensure your business complies with OSHA? Not only will you protect your business from monetary fines, but you also invest in keeping your employees on the job. Employees who are injured on the job cause financial loss to the company from lost productivity. Keeping them safe should be a top priority.
Whether your business is in heavy manufacturing or sedentary office work, you must comply with federal safety standards for your employees. If you haven’t already formed a safety strategy, start today and get your employees on board to help make a smooth transition toward a safe workplace.
