Manufacturing is a big and helpful industry, as it’s the source of the products we are using in our daily lives. It requires a variety of machines and tools to turn raw materials into something that will make people’s lives easier and more comfortable.
Most of the food and other goods that we use today come from the big players in the manufacturing industry, which include China and the United States. Because manufacturing is one of the pillars of a country’s economy, it’s essential to implement safety best practices to reduce the risks of accidents that can cause injuries or even death.
What Statistics Says
Accidents do happen in manufacturing facilities despite the owners’ efforts to remind workers to take care of themselves and do the necessary precautions when using machinery or equipment. Unfortunately, some manufacturing companies aren’t being compliant with all the safety standards and regulations that are set to protect the employees. In 2018, OSHA collected over $50 million in fines for such violations.
Nearly four percent of employees experienced an injury or illness in the workplace. OSHA has set safety requirements for the manufacturing industry to protect the workers against accidents. Business owners should adhere to the regulations and standards to keep their working environment safe for the men and women in their workforce. By ensuring compliance, manufacturers can maintain a pool of healthy, motivated, and productive employees, as well as reduce compensation claims.
Many injured workers get the help of experienced personal injury lawyers to get the compensation they deserve. Dealing with the case can be stressful for the employees and the manufacturer. To avoid headaches, you should put extra effort into preventing an accident in the manufacturing facility.
Here are some of the best ways to do that:
Hazard Identification and Communication
Manufacturers should know the hazardous raw materials and chemicals they use or produce. They should gather as much information, classify every chemical, label each container correctly, maintain updated records of the hazardous materials, and provide their employees with comprehensive training on handling those chemicals. They must be aware of the dangerous chemicals that are present in the workplace, as well as the threats they pose.
Machine Guards for Extra Protection
Employees who use complex machinery in the manufacturing facility are at risk of getting involved in an accident, which can cause blindness, severe burns, and in worse cases, amputation. You can reduce the risk by making sure every machine has a safety guard, as well as a written guide for safe operation. All employees must be adequately trained before handling or using any device in the facility.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Each worker must have the right personal protective equipment, which will protect them against injuries in accidents occur. The set may include safety gloves, protective glasses, hazmat suits, high-visibility vests, and safety shoes, among others.
Fall Protection Systems
Accidental falls are among the leading causes of injuries and deaths in workplaces, including manufacturing facilities. In 2017, OSHA implemented a new rule when it comes to safety inspections and training. Make sure you are updated and compliant with this rule to keep your workers safe, as well as avoid fines and other penalties.
Fire Prevention and Protection
Manufacturers should identify potential fire safety hazards and implement effective strategies to keep the facility and the workers safe. An emergency action plan is necessary, and it should provide detailed instructions on what the employees should do in case of a fire or any other type of emergency.
Exit Routes
There must be proper exit routes in the manufacturing facility, and the exit plan should comply with OSHA’s safety standards. These exit routes will help save lives in case of emergencies, such as a fire or an explosion inside the facility.
Lockout/Tagout Procedure
When using machinery, there is a risk of accidental release of hazardous energy that can harm workers and the environment. You can control this energy and prevent damage by implementing a proper lockout/tagout procedure in your facility.
Continuous Planning and Implementation of Safety Programs
It’s so much better if you can think of other safety measures or programs that will help keep your employees safe while working in your premises. These programs should complement your existing safety plans and must comply with OSHA standards as well.
As your business and the lives of your employees are at stake, you must do your best to maintain a safe working environment. Stay updated on the latest OSHA regulations and standards to reduce the risks of accidents and ensure smooth business operations.
