All eyes on you: Safety and Health – what do we put first?
As today is World Day for Safety and Health at work. We take a look at what safety and health is in the workplace, but did you ever stop to wonder which comes first when you speak about safety and health?
Some would argue safety first others will argue health comes first. What should we put first?
Truth is, both go hand in hand with each other. You can’t have a healthy workplace if your workplace isn’t safe, and you also need to have safety practices, policies and procedures in order for a workplace to create a healthy culture and environment to work in. Our safety is the key to our health.
Why is a safe and healthy workplace so important?
Truth is nobody wants to do business with corporations that risk the quality of the product, safety and health of their employees to increase. Businesses who care about their employees put them first and when that happens, productivity increases. Those employees can then make a positive difference and the benefits of a safe and healthy workplace will be clearly seen by employees and outside visitors.
Establishing good safety practices including training, education, and safety equipment begins with the employers’ commitment to safety and health. Workplace safety and health benefits both the business and the worker. The benefits of workplace safety and health transforms a company and its employees into a healthy team of people with a common goal. It is a win for everybody.
Now, step back and observe what you see today, in your workplace or even at home and what you would like to picture for your own kids and our future generation and those to come. The world is created for all – so why not take safety and health seriously and create a world that is better for all to enjoy, live, work, learn and play. Let’s raise awareness of safety and health at work and don’t let it wear off. Continue to practice and apply it in our everyday lives.
“My goal in life is to leave behind a safe and healthy world for our children. Before I leave this world, I want to be satisfied that at least I tried. I know I can make a difference, even if it might only be a small one.”
— Maisie Shiell
Not sure where to start? Here are some ways we can contribute to creating a Safe and Healthy workplace for ourselves and our colleagues around us:
- Act in a safe manner at all times pay attention to what you’re doing all the time and what is happening around you
- Follow all safety procedures and rules your employer/ workplace has in place
- Insist on receiving proper training
- Report any hazards – big or small report them all
- Keep your work area clean and tidy
- Wear and use proper protective gear or equipment (PPE) that has been provided.
- Discuss any concerns you may have with your health and safety to your supervisor
- If you have an illness or condition, make sure your supervisor is aware of it
- Take your work seriously
Spread awareness and make a difference in the world – Safety and Health begins with you!