Workplace Safety

Warm Up

1. What are the most common accidents happening in a workplace?

2. What dangerous equipment can be seen inside an office building?

3. Name some activities that companies regularly conduct to prepare employees during emergencies.

Reading

One primary responsibility of a company is to assess what exists in its workplaces that might endanger employees and other designated persons, as well as whether it is taking appropriate action to stop those incidents from happening. Even while a business may already be taking precautions to keep people safe, it's crucial to evaluate how sufficient they are and whether further action is necessary.

To consider these issues, a health and safety risk assessment must be conducted. The assessment process will vary depending on the size of the company, its existing resources and what it does. The procedure should be used to identify and assess the risks to health and safety at work, examine the controls the organization has in place to manage those risks, and explore further options for lowering, transferring, or avoiding the risks.

Once a company has identified its workplace safety risks and what additional steps it needs to take to control them, it should put appropriate measures in place. Companies should take a balanced approach to health and safety management by weighing up the risks and seeking to put in place proportionate steps to mitigate those risks.

Appropriate guidance and documentation should be in place and up to date. This may include any policies and plans, insurances and other contractual documentation including employment or other contracts. Any health and safety posters and relevant certificates should be displayed in a prominent position.

Organizations must ensure they provide clear instructions and information to staff members and contractors. Those responsible for overseeing health and safety in the workplace should ensure all relevant staff members and contractors are aware of any risks associated with their work and workspaces and any control measures or emergency procedures in place and understand the roles of others in the company. 

Reading Comprehension

1. What is the primary responsibility of a company regarding workplace safety, and why is it important?

2. How should a company conduct a health and safety risk assessment, and what factors influence this process?

3. What steps should a company take after identifying workplace safety risks, and what documentation should be maintained?

Discussion Questions

1. How should a company protect the health and safety of its employees?

2. Could you point out any possible dangers in your working environment?

3. How comfortable do you feel reporting safety concerns or incidents?

4. What roles do workers play in keeping the workplace safe?

5. How effective do you think fire or earthquake drills are?

6. What are the essential elements of a successful workplace health and safety program?

7. How can companies support a safety-conscious culture among staff members?

8. In what ways may technology be used to improve worker safety?

9. How do you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and what are the consequences of non-compliance?

10. How do you prioritize health and safety efforts given a limited budget?