It’s no secret that working in a manufacturing facility comes along with certain hazards. While these hazards can’t often be removed due to the nature of the job, there are ways you can create a safe work environment for employees. Being aware of the most common dangers can help you to take the proper precautionary measures.
Wet Floors
Falls are one of the most common types of injury in manufacturing. Wet floors and slippery surfaces can be a large contributor to this. Make sure you take all necessary precautions. If spills occur, address them quickly to avoid an excess of falls. The area should be clearly marked so employees can be aware of the hazard. If these slippery areas are a common occurrence in your facility, you may want to consider permanent signage. You can also place rubber mats on the floors to give your employees more traction as they go about their daily activities.
Electrical Machinery
Working with machinery comes with many hazards. These machines are designed for large jobs and they have a lot of moving parts, so it’s important that employees are aware of how to use them properly. With some machines it’s possible for employees to get their hands crushed or caught in machinery. This is why it is essential to have machine guards and to make sure they are properly installed. In addition to these guards, you should also give employees other visual warnings. OSHA requires businesses to keep employees safe by placing warning signs around machines and electrical equipment. This helps to alert or remind them of the danger.
Permanent Hazards
Facilities specialize in different areas so there are likely certain hazards that are specific to yours. Make sure you are aware of these unique hazards. If you work with dangerous chemicals, make sure they are labeled correctly. Ensure that all machines and equipment are properly maintained. Equipment that is not well-cared for can become damaged and prone to malfunction. The most beneficial measure you can take is to provide proper safety training for your employees on the unique hazards in your facility. This training should be done regularly in order to ensure your employees are following regulations. You can also post signs and posters to remind them.
Safety is essential in any workplace, but more so in manufacturing facilities. In order to protect your employees, make sure you yourself are aware of all hazards as this will help you create a plan to address them. Evaluate your facility and make safety a priority.
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