Your worksite may violate many safety regulations without you even realizing it. Unfortunately, unsafe working conditions can easily fly under the radar and cause issues that are difficult to spot at first. For example, while you may provide safety training for your employees, you may not have noticed that the inspection dates on your equipment have expired. Knowing which unsafe working conditions to look out for can help you prevent on-site injuries and create a culture of workplace safety.
3 examples of unsafe working conditions in your workplace
Sometimes, workplace conditions can seem completely safe and harmless when in reality, they are opportunities for an accident waiting to happen. As an employer, you should constantly check your workplace for unsafe working conditions that may often go unnoticed, including the following:
- Poor lighting and an obstructed floor — Adequate lighting is essential for safe working conditions, as insufficient lighting can hinder visibility and lead to accidents and injuries. Employers should ensure that all areas of the workplace, including stairwells, warehouse floors and parking areas, are properly lit to minimize the risk of falls and other accidents. Similarly, employers should make sure that all areas of the workplace floor are clear of debris.
- Expired or worn equipment — Employers are responsible for providing workers with safe equipment in good working conditions. This means maintaining equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, regularly inspecting and testing equipment, and providing workers with proper training on how to use their personal equipment safely. Employers should also always check inspection dates on all equipment. If an employer finds that a piece of equipment is out of date, alert all employees and replace the piece with a new one.
- Improper disposal of hazardous materials — Many workplaces use hazardous materials that can pose a risk to workers' health and safety. Employers should implement appropriate safety procedures and provide training to workers on how to safely handle, store, and dispose of these materials to prevent accidents and exposure to harmful chemicals. This may mean making sure all labels on chemical containers are legible and all containers are sealed after use.
Work-Fit can help you prevent unsafe working conditions at your site
It can be easy to overlook unsafe working conditions, especially if you are occupied with several other responsibilities. However, as an employer, it is your responsibility to prevent employee injuries. Our team at Work-Fit can help you improve your employees’ health and safety by designing regular training programs and offering on-site injury intervention. Contact our team today for more information about our services or to learn how we can keep your employees and your business healthy.
