Keeping staff safe is a top priority for managers and business owners. They have a duty of care to their employees and those they oversee. This is largely because they have to adhere to health and safety laws. Here we discuss how individuals can improve their safety at work.

According to the UK health and safety law and the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974), it’s the employer’s responsibility to protect the health and safety of both their employees and anyone else who might be affected by the business.

While employers must take care to protect their staff, there are things that employees can do on an individual level to keep themselves safe too. If you’re an employee and wondering how you can improve your safety in the workplace, take a look at these pointers. Here, we look at some of the ways you can take action without simply relying on what your boss has introduced.

Keep your workspace clean

Wherever you work, whether in an office, kitchen, or classroom, keeping your area clean and clear of dirt makes it tidier and reduces the risk of harmful bacteria. Additionally, it removes potential hazards like slippery surfaces. Make it part of your routine to wipe down surfaces with disinfectant, and dust, and clear away any rubbish. Set reminders to dedicate time and assess the space you work in.

Invest in the right equipment

What sector do you work in? If you’re in the medical profession or on a building site, you’ll likely receive appropriate personal protective equipment. If you need protection to do your job effectively, ask your manager for the necessary PPE. For instance, welders need high-quality protective goggles, and mechanics need ear defenders. As a security guard, the equipment used by your team can drastically affect job quality and safety. You need equipment for self-defense and proper communication. Tools such as body armour, batons, flashlights, etc., must be used. For communication, you can try using two-way communication earpieces. These devices can facilitate effective contact among your team members, ensuring seamless collaboration, and you easily request assistance in an emergency,

Having the right equipment is especially important if you work in a hazardous place, such as a warehouse – in which case, steel-capped boots and back support belts are likely to protect you when lifting heavy objects. However, some issues can occur in desk-based jobs, too and it’s worth asking your HR manager for wrist support tools if you’re typing a lot or screen protectors if your laptop is affecting your vision.

By asking your managers for PPE, you’re taking responsibility for your well-being in the workplace.

Make sure you’re fully trained

If you operate power tools or machinery, you’ll need the training to know how to act safely. Training should be part and parcel of your role in these situations. However, if you feel like you need more information or you feel like your knowledge is patchy, always request training before you go in and use the equipment or tools.  Eco Online provides safety training that is fully customizable to fit your industry’s needs

Whatever setting you work in, if you request further training, you’re reducing the hazard levels and keeping both yourself and your colleagues safe

While your boss has a duty of care to you and legal responsibilities to meet, you must take the lead where you think there might be an issue. Being responsible for your health and safety at work can make a huge difference to the workplace for yourself and those around you