Our workplaces often feel like a second home. Or at least it’s where we spend the majority of our time. That’s why practicing the following workplace safety tips is so important. Keeping your office safe keeps you safe, which is our main priority at Sonitrol.
While we have alarms and security systems that watch for outside threats, there are dangers in the workplace that you may not realize affect you from day to day. While we keep an eye out for intruders, here are a few easy ways that you can protect yourself in the workplace:
Practice proper posture
Whether you work at a desk or out in the field, your spine is being put to use throughout the day. Keep your vertebrae happy by sitting with your shoulders over your hips. Have heavy lifting to do on the job? Use the correct form when lifting or moving heavy items to ensure that you don’t hurt yourself.
Take regular breaks
Taking regular breaks throughout the day helps you stay alert, both mentally and physically. Take a walk around the office or do a few stretches to keep the blood flowing, and if you’re working at a computer, make sure you spend a few minutes each hour not staring at a screen.
Use machines properly
Make sure to utilize machinery properly. Whether it’s a forklift or a laptop, there’s a risk in using machines day-to-day. If you work at a desk, make sure that your computer’s exhaust isn’t blocked, or it could potentially cause a fire. In the case of heavy machinery, make sure to read the manuals for each one to make sure that you are using and maintaining it properly.
Keep exits accessible
One of the biggest dangers of the workplace is a blocked fire exit. This happens far too often, as most people forget or get lazy about blocking a path in case of an emergency. Go throughout the office every month or so and make sure that all of the emergency exits are easily accessible. You should also keep a fire plan in place, making sure that everyone knows where they should go in case of a fire.
Utilize the right equipment
Make sure that you’re properly protected for whatever job you may be tackling. If you’re dealing with toxic chemicals, wear a breathing mask at all times, and if you’re on a slippery surface, put on your non-skid shoes. Whatever occasion arises, make sure that you can handle it with the proper equipment.
Avoid and treat stress
Your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being, which is why it’s so important to keep your stress levels in check. Stress-related outbursts are threatening in a workplace. So, if you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed at any point, it may be a good idea to take a short break from your desk, or use a sick day to rest and recover. If issues with stress persist, discuss things with your boss or a Human Resources representative.
With how much time we spend at our office or workplace, it’s important that we are doing everything possible to protect ourselves- both physically and mentally. Use these tips to help protect yourself at work, and Sonitrol will take care of the rest.