There is not a job in existence that does not come with some level of risk. Whether a job is indoors or outside, at a desk or behind the wheel, at an entry-level position or in corporate management, workplace accidents can occur. However, some companies do a much worse job than others at mitigating risks and protecting employees from personal injury and harm. In today's blog post, we will look at four ways businesses put their employees at risk for workplace accidents, and what companies can do to reduce risks and keep employees safe.

No Safety Training

One of the biggest reasons employees get hurt on the job is because they don't have the proper training needed to perform their job safely or correctly handle vital equipment or tools. When safety training or equipment training is an afterthought or something done very sporadically, it significantly increases the likelihood of a serious workplace injury. Not only do employees need safety training for all aspects of their job, they can also benefit from first aid training and administering CPR.

Lack of Personal Protective Equipment

Companies also put their employees as risk for injury by having them perform dangerous work duties without personal protective equipment (PPE) for their own safety. PPE generally refers to safety goggles, hardhats, gloves, safety vests, steel-toed shoes, safety harnesses, and other gear needed to make everyday work tasks safer. Although there is an added expense to businesses for acquiring and providing PPE, it is offset by the reduction in injured workers, company downtime, and Workers Compensation claims, as well as avoiding any possible OSHA violations.

Excessive Overtime Hours

Occasionally a business will need employees to work overtime hours in order to complete a goal, finish a task, or meet an approaching deadline. There are also times when an employee might request additional overtime hours simply to make extra money. While it's fine for employees to work some overtime hours, it can become a real hazard when employees are forced to or allowed to work excessive overtime hours. Working around the clock can leave employees mentally drained, making them more likely to make careless mistakes and hurt themselves or others in the process. This is especially true for employees that operate company vehicles, work with hazardous materials, or handle dangerous tools and equipment. Companies need to limit overtime hours to ensure the safety of employees and customers, and help avoid workplace accidents or mistakes.

Unsafe Work Conditions

Finally, employees are at a greater risk for injury when a workplace is cluttered, disorganized, or filthy. A cramped and messy workplace is an unsafe workplace, as it can be difficult for employees to move around safely or perform their job duties in a safe and efficient manner. If workers have to step around piles of boxes, if paperwork accumulates everywhere, or if hazardous materials are stored improperly, these all can contribute to an unsafe work environment that is likely to result in more worker injuries.

Great companies start with great employees, but it can be difficult to retain them on staff if they feel their safety is being compromised because of an unsafe work environment. Companies need to embrace changes that put employee safety first, even if it means making costly improvements for building safety, training, and equipment. Aegis Insurance & Financial services can also help companies save money while protecting employees through our full range of top quality Commercial Insurance solutions. Contact Aegis today at 713-850-7622 for more information, or fill out our online form to request a free quote!