Manufacturing plants and industries can be dangerous places for many workers. Compared to other work environments such as offices and stores, the industrial workplace poses more potential perils. The National Safety Council ranks the manufacturing and production industry among the top five occupations with the highest number of workplace injuries.
Most workplace injuries in the manufacturing and production industries are due to accidents. However, some injuries are often caused by negligence by the workers, their supervisors, or the management. It’s essential to put in extra effort to reduce the number of injuries. Here are a few of the most common safety measures in the manufacturing and production workplace.
1. Eliminating Fire Hazards
Many manufacturing plants deal with highly combustible materials every day. Flammable material must be handled with care and also stored away and disposed of appropriately. Most industries have effective protocols in place for combustible dust management and use of flammable materials. Every worker is expected to observe certain guidelines to prevent fire outbreaks.
2. Protection in Unsafe Conditions
Industries are required by law to provide workers in unsafe environments with the correct personal protective equipment. For instance, workers handling toxic gases should wear protective gas masks at all times. Other wearables such as hard hats, gloves, and boots are also necessary for certain workplaces. PPE helps prevent bodily harm from both physical and chemical hazards.
3. Extensive Training
Thorough training in most industries can also be a safety measure. New and existing workers should be trained on how to operate the various machines and equipment safely, what the safety procedures are, and how to respond or react in the event of an accident. Extensive training equips the workers with essential skills that ensure their safety and the safety of others.
The importance of safety in the workplace cannot be overemphasized. Every worker and other parties involved must prioritize creating a safe work environment. Commitment to safety demands strict observation of safety protocols and getting everyone on board with the safety mission.
