The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that every year, approximately 2.8 million people in the United States suffer from work–related injuries. This means that on average, each worker is injured on the job every 7 seconds. While some workplace injuries are minor and require little more than a band–aid, others can be much more serious, resulting in missed work days, hospitalization, or even death. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from injury while on the job.
Here are 7 tips for staying safe at work:
1. Wear the proper safety gear Depending on your job, you may be required to wear certain safety gear, such as a hard hat, safety glasses, or steel–toed boots. It’s important to always wear the proper gear when working, even if you think it’s not necessary. If you’re not sure whether or not you should be wearing safety gear, ask your supervisor.
2. Be aware of your surroundings When you’re working, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and know where potential hazards are. This includes things like electrical outlets, sharp objects, and moving machinery. If you’re not sure where the hazards are in your workplace, ask your supervisor.
3. Follow all safety procedures If your workplace has specific safety procedures in place, make sure you always follow them. This could include things like using proper lifting techniques or wearing a respirator when working with hazardous materials.
4. Don’t take shortcuts It can be tempting to take shortcuts when working, especially if you’re in a hurry. However, shortcuts are often the cause of accidents, so it’s important to resist the temptation and take the time to do things the right way.
5. Report all accidents and injuries If you do have an accident or get injured at work, it’s important to report it to your supervisor immediately. This will help ensure that the proper steps are taken to prevent further accidents and injuries.
6. Be cautious when using equipment When using equipment, such as power tools, it’s important to be cautious and follow all safety instructions. This includes things like wearing proper eye and ear protection.
7. Take breaks as needed If you’re feeling tired or fatigued, it’s important to take a break. This will help you avoid accidents or injuries that can occur when you’re not at your best.
Bonus Tip. Get adequate sleep Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and well-being, and it can also help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries at work.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe at work.