Workplaces in every industry across the United States today are much safer than they were years ago. New safety procedures, equipment and training are constantly evolving to keep workers safe, well and productive. Not only is a maintaining a protected and healthy workforce good business, it’s also the right thing to do for them and their families.
Progress in reducing workplace fatalities and injuries can be attributed to unions, government regulations, health and safety professionals, and the workers themselves. The establishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1971 has also spurred the decline. Since 1970, worker deaths in the United States are down on average from about 38 to 15 in 2019, according to OSHA statistics. Worker injuries and illnesses are down from 10.9 occurrences per 100 workers in 1972 to 2.8 per 100 in 2019. Here are several things your members can do to keep themselves and their co-workers protected on the job:
- Regularly review the company’s current safety procedures and suggest updates as necessary;
- Learn how to correctly operate equipment such as specialty vehicles and machines before use;
- Actively participate in safety training and seminars at the workplace.
- Know the locations of safety equipment such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers and automatic external defibrillators, and how to properly use them;
- Encourage office workers to avoid continual typing to reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome;
- Urge the company to provide office furniture that enables workers to both sit and stand at their desks, and supply ergonomic office chairs to reduce strain on the workers’ bodies;
- Follow all safety procedures, particularly at more risky worksites like construction, emergency services and roadway maintenance or repair;
- Use eye, ear and respiratory protection when appropriate. Also, wear a helmet, gloves and reflective vest as needed;
- Take a lunch period and at least two breaks during the workday to relax and get away from work;
- Maintain a proper diet and healthy lifestyle outside of the workplace;
- Exercise regularly and get an annual medical checkup;
- Mention safety concerns to management. If the concerns aren’t addressed, take the matter to an outside regulator, if necessary.
Regardless of how careful workers are, accidents do happen. It’s a fact of life. And they can be devastating. They can lead to serious injuries, the loss of limbs, permanent disability or even death. That’s why it’s so important for members to carry accidental death and liability insurance protection for their families in the event of a serious accident. Connect with IMAC today. We’ll work with you to develop the AD&D insurance package your members need.