How to Contribute to Workplace Safety

Safety is the responsibility of every worker.

In 2008, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported nearly four million nonfatal illnesses and injuries in private industry, more than one million of which resulted in employee absences. For the same year, the bureau reported 5,214 fatal work-related injuries in private industry. These numbers do not include government workplaces. Government regulatory agencies enforce laws that protect worker safety, while an entire industry has grown around education and prevention. In the midst of those efforts is the worker, who not only has rights, but also has responsibility for the safety of the workplace.

Things You'll Need

• Safety publications
• Safety signs
• Paper
• Pencils
• Files

Instructions

1. 

   Know the rules.

   Learn and follow all regulations and rules for your industry. Occupational Safety and Health recommends that employees assume responsibility for complying with safety and health standards. Read safety manuals, standard operating procedures and Occupational Safety and Health standards. Visit the OSHA website to learn about industry-specific standards.

2. 

   Read safety material.

   Take advantage of workplace safety education, workshops or training that provides additional skills and knowledge. Some companies provide training, others reimburse for the cost of training, and communities often offer free training or workshops. Ask supervision or management to provide training if it is not available. Community colleges offer courses in workplace safety, or check with your local Workforce Development office, either through the Employment Security Commission or Department of Commerce.

3. 

   Dress for safety.

   Wear approved safety clothing as required while performing your duties or while in a dangerous work area, including hard hats, footwear, eye wear and other protective clothing and gear required for your job.

4. 

   Pay attention to instructions.

   Use equipment and machinery safely, following all guidelines and safe use policies. Perform recommended equipment maintenance and repairs as required. Report faulty equipment immediately to the appropriate person and refrain from using machinery that could cause harm. If handbooks or manuals are missing, ask that they be replaced.

5. 

   Think safety.

   Use the proper tools for the job, ensure adequate lighting and use safe lifting recommendations. OSHA standards provide charts and instructions for safe lifting. Do not substitute alternate tools or equipment--for instance, using a chair or stacked boxes to reach a shelf instead of using a ladder.

6. 

   Communicate with co-workers.

   Protect others by keeping work areas free of clutter, putting away equipment and tools and communicating with others about possible dangers. Communication could involve placement of a wet floor sign, an email or using an intercom system. Stay informed by attending meetings and reading all written communication from management.

7. 

   Mark hazards and report

   Report work-related injuries or illnesses immediately, seek treatment and document the event in the manner required by your employer's policies. In addition, report workplace hazards immediately, including spills, chemical dangers, electrical dangers and any change in the work environment that could result in injury or illness. If your workplace does not specify the reporting contact, let your supervisor or the building manager know.

8. 

   Choose a place to meet.

   Form a safety team for your office and choose a safety leader to provide oversight and communication. This works well in workplaces where safety is not considered a significant issue. Safety could mean security, responding to emergency events or knowing the location of fire exits. Meet with supervisors or management to discuss how to get started.

Tips & Warnings

• Make suggestions to improve workplace safety. Know who the safety contacts are in your area. When in doubt, ask. Take initiative--if appropriate and safe, remove a safety hazard instead of waiting for someone else.

• If unsure of verbal instructions, ask to see written policy. Allow qualified personnel to respond to chemical spills or other hazards that require special training.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities
• Occupational Safety and Health: Employee Responsibilities
• City of Phoenix: Workplace Safety Tips

Resources

• Employee Responsibilities, Occupational Safety and Health, U.S. Department of Labor
• Workplace Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control
• Workplace Safety Quiz, Nonprofit Risk Management Center
• Michigan Technological University, Tips for Safe Lifting
• OSHA General Industry Standards