Protecting yourself from harm might seem impossible, with so many accidents and crimes happening every single day. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to keep yourself safe while at work and at home! Below are some of the best ways you can protect yourself from harm while you’re working.
1. Ask For ADA-Accessibility
Around 12% of Americans have a long-term disability, and many more have short-term disabilities that can make working life difficult. If your workplace isn’t accessible to those with disabilities, you could be putting yourself at risk of injury. Requesting that your workplace become more accessible is a great way to protect yourself and others with disabilities and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some changes that could be made include installing wheelchair ramps, providing Braille materials, and creating an easily navigable layout. By making these changes, your workplace will be a safer environment for everyone.
2. Wear The Right Gear
Working with dangerous tools or in hazardous environments can put you at risk of serious injury. To protect yourself, it’s important to always wear the proper safety gear. This might include items like gloves, goggles, or a hard hat. In some cases, you might also need to wear specialized clothing to protect yourself from harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. By wearing the right gear, you can help reduce your risk of injury while on the job and ensure you’re living a better, more safe lifestyle.
3. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
Working in a busy environment can be distracting, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. This is especially true if you’re working with dangerous tools or in a hazardous area. Paying attention to your surroundings will help you stay safe while you’re working. If you notice any potential dangers, be sure to take steps to avoid them. To do so, consider putting away your phone, taking breaks often, and staying focused on your task at hand.
4. Know Your Rights
Every employee has the right to a safe and healthy workplace. If you feel like your rights are being violated, speak up! Knowing your rights is a great way to protect yourself from harm in the workplace. If you’re not sure what your rights are, consider asking your Human Resources department. For instance, 87% of employees expect their employer to help them strike a good work-life balance. While your employer isn’t obligated to give you a work-from-home job, they are obligated to grant you sick time and other leave benefits so you can live a healthy and more relaxed lifestyle.
5. Keep A Record Of Incidents
If you’re ever injured at work, it’s important to keep a record of the incident. This can be helpful if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim or pursue legal action against your employer. To create a record of an incident, take pictures of the scene and any injuries you sustained. In addition, consider documenting how these incidents impacted your health. Around 14% of women 18 and over are in fair or poor health. For these women, an injury at work could have a significant impact on their health. If you’re ever injured at work, be sure to seek medical attention right away. In addition, keep a record of the incident so you can protect yourself down the road. Doing so will help when you’re seeking worker’s compensation benefits.
6. Speak Up About Safety Concerns
If you ever have any safety concerns at work, it’s important to speak up. Your employer has a responsibility to keep you safe, and they can’t do so if they’re not aware of potential hazards. If you’re ever unsure about something at work, ask a supervisor or another trusted individual. You can also report any incidents to OSHA, which is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. By speaking up about safety concerns, you can help make your workplace a safer place for everyone. By speaking up, you can help create a safer workplace for yourself and your fellow employees.
Working life can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself in the workplace.
