What’s in your safety toolbox?

A safe work environment can not only affect productivity in the workplace, but it can also affect your workers compensation insurance.

Workers compensation premiums are derived from your annual payroll, employment classification and your experience eod (if your business has one). A good way to help control the costs of this insurance is by having a safe work environment.

While many insurance companies offer free safety videos and loss control services, there are also some free services available online. I came across a unique site at www.safety.blr.com.

This Web site has resources available that range from written safety tips and meeting outlines to Power Point presentations that you can download for free and use for your meetings. 

A common misconception is that safety meetings are only needed for construction industries, garages or manufacturing companies. However, injuries can occur in any workplace including an office and home-based businesses. Computer usage is becoming more prevalent in our everyday work environment and these types of injuries are on the rise:

• Slips, trips and falls
• Overuse injuries
• Back and neck strain
• Eye strain

Here are a few simple steps you can take to make your workplace safe:

Keep all electrical cords organized and out of walk areas

If you use a mouse – make sure it is positioned close to the keyboard

Invest in ergonomic chairs and keyboards

Make sure you have proper lighting and that your employees take their scheduled breaks

Sometimes little things can have the greatest impact in the workplace. A safer work environment can help you have fewer claims. And with fewer claims, you may be able to reduce your workers  compensation expenses.

So the next time you think about the safety of your workplace – think about the toolbox.