Workplace injuries are something that plagues many industries, and create a host of problems each year. Although injuries and fatalities have decreased significantly over the past 40 years, they still happen on a consistent basis. According to OSHA, “there were 3.3 injuries and illnesses per 100 workers and 12 fatalities per day in 2013.” Let’s now go over some specific reasons why it’s so important to follow safety guidelines at work.
Meet OSHA Regulations
OSHA is responsible for enforcing safety guidelines and minimizing hazards that could result in injury and illness. Consequently, they have some fairly comprehensive regulations in place to ensure that businesses protect their employees and customers. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to investigations when hazards are reported. This can ultimately result in penalties and some hefty fines that can wreak havoc on a business financially, and hurt its reputation.
Prevent Unnecessary Injuries and Illness
Following guidelines keeps employees healthy and protects their well-being. They can perform their jobs more effectively, and be confident that they don’t have to worry about being injured or suffering from an illness. This creates a more positive atmosphere and everyone can be more comfortable at work.
Avoid Lost Time
In turn, employees are less likely to get sidetracked with injuries or illnesses that may require long bouts of medical treatment, therapy and rehabilitation. Besides the physical pain, being on the shelf for an extended period can be detrimental to a worker’s finances and create a lot of psychological anguish as well. Not to mention the hardships it can bring to their family members. Paying attention to safety guidelines greatly reduces the threat of injury and illness so employees can keep earning the income they need to support themselves and their family.
Increase Productivity
When injuries and illness aren’t a constant threat, it tends to help employees work more efficiently with fewer setbacks. This often translates into higher productivity on a daily basis. And because worker absenteeism is lowered, it creates an environment where greater team chemistry can be achieved. This is beneficial to a company because its profit margins should increase, which can also hold benefits for employees such as higher pay and advancement opportunities.
When you weigh the advantages of following safety guidelines against the disadvantages of not following them, it’s clear that safety is the best policy for everyone involved. By playing by the rules, employees help themselves, their family and the company they work for. This translates into:
- Compliance with OSHA rules and regulations
- Avoiding senseless injuries that may be painful, costly and potentially life altering
- Improved production and more overall workplace stability
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