Are you doing enough to ensure workplace safety?
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), on average, there have been 136 fatalities in the workplace each year since 2016. On top of this, there are 70 000 reported injuries while at work. These worrying statistics underscore the importance of health and safety compliance in the workplace in the strongest terms.
On top of these numbers, the results of a recent survey have shown some negative perceptions around workplace safety. Nearly a quarter of staff feel unsafe at work. 33% believe that the creation of COVID-19 secure workplaces has seen a decline in other health and safety measures, while 37% believe that profitability is given priority over protecting workers.
The Effect of These Statistics and Perceptions on the Workplace
These statistics and this collective mindset are concerning and will have a knock-on effect when it comes to morale, productivity, and staff retention for business owners and property managers. The greatest way to combat this negative outlook is through strong leadership and evidenced efforts to ensure workplace safety.
Meet Statutory Compliance Standards
Statutory regulations form the threshold of your workplace safety responsibilities. By conducting regular maintenance through a reputable facilities maintenance company, you are taking meaningful first strides when it comes to workplace safety, often going beyond the minimum, helping you to showcase your commitment to safety amongst your staff. This also provides traceable records of your adherence to the standards should an incident report ever be required by the HSE.
Voltix Services offers statutory compliance services that include lightning protection, emergency lighting, gas safety, water treatment and hygiene, air quality monitoring, and electrical installation condition reports. Find out more about achieving statutory compliance with Voltix today.
Special Focus on Lone Workers
Health and safety precautions are especially important in the case of lone workers. Lone worker policy is covered by The Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 and The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations of 1999. Research has shown that 68% of companies have had a lone worker incident occur in the past three years, which are attributable to a range of factors including accidents. The same report states that only 36% of lone workers report their concerns to their employers (while almost all employers believe that they are kept aware of potential workplace hazards). This is a clear sign of a disconnect within many businesses – one that can be re-established through measures of communication around mechanical safety and health and safety in general.
Long-Term Maintenance for Safety
Keeping equipment in good running order is an investment in operator safety, as well as bystanders and other workers. It can also have a bearing on long-term health and wellbeing. This plays an important role in maintaining a safe working environment. By engaging with maintenance specialists, you receive expert advice and solutions around myriad elements of your building. From fire safety to grounds maintenance (especially important over the winter months), gear your facilities maintenance to serve your workplace safety standards.
Find out more about the maintenance services from Voltix Services. Contact us for more information on how we can help you to keep your machinery and electrical systems in good working order – and work towards high-level workplace safety.