Safety is a significant concern for anyone who cares about their well-being. In some cases, neglecting safety practices puts others at risk too. The adage “you are your brother’s keeper” means just that; look out for each other. Certain habits can safeguard you, while others can put you at risk. Therefore, choose your habits wisely.

If you’re running an industrial and manufacturing plant, you are concerned about the safety of everyone. You do not want high insurance bills and loss of working hours due to injuries you would otherwise have avoided. It has to be said, according to David Rowland, Head of Marketing at Engage EHS, that the responsibility for health and safety starts with the directors of a business. However, if they get this right, and instigate a cultural shift in their company, the benefits can include greater brand loyalty and a higher bottom line. Here are a few tips that’ll increase everyone’s safety while at the plant:

#1: Wear Safety Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPEs) is a must in any industrial and manufacturing plant to enhance safety. As these are areas with various equipment, it is best to safeguard yourself at all times. Operating without PPE is putting not just yourself but others at risk. Make your employees aware of their responsibility for safety gear and ensure safety rules are strictly adhered to.

#2: Train Employees to Report Anomalies Immediately

The best practice is to bring to attention any anomalies one may encounter in the line of duty. Ignoring small irregularities like nails projecting from the floor, spilt liquid, or malfunctioning equipment can enhance the possibility of a catastrophe happening. Employees should seek the attention of the person responsible for corrective measures immediately.

Create a culture that makes it possible for any worker to report anomalies. Where possible, inspire them to immediately address the problem to avoid accidents and injury to others who may pass the same area and be oblivious to the danger. For instance, the person who discovers an oil spill on the floor should clear it up as soon as possible to prevent someone else from slipping. After cleaning up the spill, the employee can then report it to the supervisor, who will ensure it gets attention.

#3: Educate Workers on Safe Practices and Hazard Areas

A considerable number of hazards that occur in industrial and manufacturing plants are a result of negligence. Instruct your employees on how to correctly operate machinery, electrical equipment, handling toxic materials, etc. Some poisonous materials affect health and also expose the plant to fire and explosion risks.

When flammable materials are not in use, proper storage practices must be adhered to, ensuring they have assigned lockable storage. Ensure that the storage facility is away from ignition sources. Dispose of certain waste types daily–for instance, combustible waste. It is best to store them in metal repositories. At the same time, dust should not be allowed to accumulate as this is a fire hazard.

#4: Put Focus on Ergonomics

Ergonomics causes a considerable number of workplace injuries. Because industrial and manufacturing plants have heavy equipment and tools, there is a fair amount of bending and lifting required. Suppose your employees are not aware of the correct bending and lifting methodologies. In that case, the chances of them suffering from musculoskeletal disorders are high. Put a great deal of focus on ergonomics and educate your workers adequately.

#5: Avoid Workers Getting Fatigued

Electrical equipment operation requires alertness. When one is sleepy or suffers from fatigue, concentration becomes difficult, which is a recipe for disaster. To curb this problem, encourage your workers to take breaks throughout the day to maintain focus and alertness when working.

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Holly Shaw is a freelance business writer.