Taking The Initiative At Work

All too often organisations only feel the need to take proactive intervention to reduce accidents at work when the fear of censure or criticism from the powers that be are looming. To that end, too many companies feel compelled to do something when the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) steps in to investigate. It is argued that early intervention and proactive communication are essential for successful rehabilitation and recovery for injured employees, with assistance being offered to them as soon as possible after injury occurs, to help prevent any health issues which could arise.

A clear policy, developed in concurrence with either employee representatives or trade unions, should be the foundation of approaching employee care after an accident. It should not be the case that an investigation begins when the HSE’s own investigation is looming and instead of being seen to do something about the problem, firms should take their own steps to addressing lack of health and safety at their own workplace.

For example, when initially drawing up an outline assessment, the best plan is to keep things simple. In an office or commercial operation, there shouldn't be many dangerous items or situations. It's just a combination of observation and common sense. When looking for hazards, employees could spend time, ideally with a colleague, walking around your workplace with a critical eye. They could identify and document all areas that may be hazardous and the type of hazards involved.

Whether an employee or a part of management, if you discover a significant potential hazard, decide how best to reduce the risk. The law requires you to do all that is reasonably practicable to ensure that your place of work is safe, so if you cannot get rid of the hazard, look at ways of controlling it, for example, a non-slip mat on slippery entrance steps. Subsequent to this, is it prudent to document the findings, highlighting the areas you have investigated; any hazards you have found and whether they were significant and the controls put in place to reduce the risks of significant hazards.

From an employers perspective, it would be worthwhile to Review the assessment of any such hazards, particularly following an accident at work or if new machines or substances are brought onto the site. As the business grows, more workers will be employed and investment will increase and with it bring more sophisticated equipment. When your business grows, there will also be a growth in hazards and so it is important to review assessments regularly.

Saurav is an author of several articles pertaining to No Win No Fee, Compensation Claims, Work Accident Claims, Personal Injury Claims and other legal articles.