There are some occupational hazards that are present no matter where you go. Across the world and across industries, workers every day are faced with hazards in their workplace. This list is just a few of the most common safety risks found in a facility:
- Forklifts: Manufacturing and warehousing facilities usually have powered industrial trucks, or forklifts, traveling throughout the space moving heavy pallets and carrying large loads. Forklifts can cause injury not only to the operator, but also to any pedestrians in the area. If a warehouse or facility has even just one forklift, it will be important to provide training and education regarding forklift safety.
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Even if no one is working from a height, they can still fall in the workplace. Statistics actually show that the majority of falls happen on same-level floors resulting from a slip or trip. Whether you have materials scattered around the floor or oil spills are a common occurrence, serious injuries can happen. Slips, trips, and falls are a hazard found in nearly any facility and employers will need to make sure they’re adequately protecting their workers.
- Electrical hazards: Nearly every workplace has to deal with electricity in one capacity or another, and that always leads to the dangers associated with electricity. Some common spots to look for electrical hazards are outlets too close to conductors, torn or frayed wires, overloading circuits, employees not using LOTO, and more. Keep workers safe by identifying all the risks in your facility and implementing the proper safeguards.
- Chemicals: Caustic and toxic chemicals pose a danger to workers. Those handling or working around chemicals will need to know the risks associated with the chemical like what bodily injury may result from exposure or respirator warnings.
This list is by no means comprehensive, but rather a starting off point to learn about the kind of hazards in your workplace. It will be important for the employer or safety manager to assess the risk and dangers of your facility, so you can implement the proper safeguards and offer the proper training to your employees.
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