Potential accidents or mishaps can occur at any workplace, regardless of the industry or the nature of the job. From slips and falls to malfunctions in equipment or workplace violence. These hazards can put employees at potential risk. An employee must make workers aware of the possible mishaps that could arise at work and how to tolerate them to ensure their safety and well-being.
These mishaps can range from minor inconveniences to major incidents, which can sometimes cause injuries and casualties. In this blog, we will highlight some of the common accidents that may take place in a workplace and also provide measures to condone them.
Common Mishaps to Occur in The Workplace
Slips and falls can cause injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures. The reason behind such damage is slippery floors, cluttered walkways, or uneven surfaces. Although this injury might not look harmful, it can result in long-term ailments and affect the worker’s productivity.
Exposure to naked wires or faulty electrical equipment can cause electric shocks or electrocution. This type of incident can sometimes be lethal or can at least cause serious injuries.
Mishandling of flammable objects or faulty equipment can cause fires and explosions in a workplace. Possible outcomes of such events could result in severe burns, smoke inhalation, or even death.
Improper lifting techniques or uncomfortable workstation settings can cause musculoskeletal disorders and other health problems over time.
Verbal or physical abuse, threats, or harassment from co-workers, customers, or clients may lead to psychological hazards, traumas, or physical injuries.
Environmental hazards such as extreme heat, cold temperatures, or unsuitable weather conditions can also cause severe problems for workers. They must also have protective measures to avoid any hazards.
Possible Ways to Tolerate Mishaps in the Workplace:
Staying calm during an accident or severe injury is essential to avoid panic. Taking a deep breath and assessing the situation will help take the right action and implement preventive approaches.
In case of an injury, seeking help as soon as possible is advised. Try seeking a co-worker, supervisor, or medical professional to receive medical assistance.
- Following workplace procedure
Following your organization’s health and safety procedures is also advisable to avoid danger. Employees must take necessary steps and actions to ensure their safety, well-being, and surroundings.
- Communication with co-workers
In case of a mishap, it’s essential to communicate with co-workers and supervisors to ensure everyone is alerted of what incident has occurred.
It is essential to take ownership of your mistake and apologize. There is nothing wrong with doing so. Be proactive in finding a solution and avoid repeating the same mistakes that led to your mistakes.
We recommend seeking professional help if an incident has caused you stress and anxiety. Be bold and ask for help. It is crucial to get back to your best to maximize your productivity.
Tips for Preventing Mishaps at Work
- Creating a culture of safety
Employers must ensure that everyone in the workplace knows the importance of safety and is familiar with the safety procedures to follow in an emergency.
- Providing proper training
Employers should ensure that workers receive proper training on using equipment and machinery. These help the workers learn from their mistakes and do’s and don’ts of their job. Providing adequate training and guidance, like risk assessment training course, can be beneficial in preventing mishaps in the workplace. Such training sessions help employees identify potential accidents and how to behave in a workplace during an emergency.
- Regular maintenance and inspection
Another common reason for various workplace accidents is due to faulty equipment or machinery. Employers and supervisors must conduct regular maintenance and inspection to avoid these hazards.
Encourage workers to provide feedback on how to improve safety in the workplace, as only some are aware of the possible threats in the workplace. Thus, weekly meetings, surveys, and suggestion boxes should be normalized.
- Paying attention to detail
Encouraging workers to pay attention to small details such as labels, instructions, and procedures can also help mitigate potential workplace mishaps.
- Practicing good communication
A lack of effective communication leads to mishaps. Thus, it should be the primary responsibility of an employer to ensure that everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities.
Conclusion
Mishaps can occur in any workplace, and being ready for such occasions is essential. The most common mishaps include accidents, injuries, equipment failures, and natural disasters. The employer can reduce the risk of workplace incidents by implementing various strategies.
Some of them include proper training of employees, such as teaching them the risk assessment training course and helping them understand that a positive attitude is needed to tolerate mishaps in the workplace. Employers should focus on creating a safe and supportive environment where workers feel comfortable to reduce the chances of workplace accidents.
